Barbara Panther

Professor Barbie Panther is the Senior Academic Director, Teaching and Learning at Monash University here she leads teams that drive learning and teaching excellence.

Barbie is passionate about supporting and recognising both academics and professional staff who design, deliver, enable and lead learning and teaching in higher education, working to ensure parity of esteem for teaching and research. 

Barbie’s academic background is in chemistry, with a PhD in atmospheric chemistry. Barbie is a national award winner lecturer in environmental and organic chemistry and climate science. Her passion for sharing her expertise more broadly has led to roles such as scientist-in-residence in primary school, a leader of travelling science shows for regional and remote high schools, and as an enrichment lecturer on cruise ships. 

Barbie has held leadership roles in a number of Australian universities, including Associate Dean, Learning and Teaching for the Faculty of Science and Technology, and Chair of the Teaching and Learning Committee at Federation University, where she led the development of the Teaching and Learning strategy; and Director, Teaching Capability at Deakin University, where she led the development of the Deakin Teaching and Learning Academy and the Inclusive Education program.

Barbie holds national and international leadershiop roles in teaching and learning with AdvanceHE and as the Vice-President of the Council of Australasian Leaders of Learning and Teaching (CAULLT), bringing a sector-wide perspective to her work. Barbie is passionate about building expertise in teaching and learning, supporting the development of emerging and existing leaders in learning and teaching, and building community and recognition programs for all who contribute to the student experience in higher education.