Dr Hannah Kirk is a Developmental Psychologist based at the Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University in Melbourne, Australia. She is currently appointed as a Senior Lecturer and leads the Developmental Risk and Digital Innovation (DRDI) Laboratory.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Newcastle University (UK) and a PhD in Psychological Sciences from Monash University (Australia). In 2018 she was awarded an NHMRC Peter Doherty Early Career Fellowship. 

Her research program examines how digital technology can support cognitive, academic, behavioural and health outcomes in children and adolescents. In particular, Dr Kirk's research focuses on children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, Down syndrome and Williams syndrome.

She co-invented the world’s first digital attention intervention for children with neurodevelopmental disorders and has led two clinical trials evaluating the benefits of the intervention. The patented intervention is now an approved Class 1 Medical Device with the FDA and TGA, reimbursable through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and being used by children globally.

She was awarded the APS Thesis Award for Studies in the Psychology of Intellectual Disability and Autism (2016), the Dean's award for Excellence in Research (2018) and the BioMelbourne Emerging Leadership Award (2021).  

Dr Kirk actively engages with the community as a science expert on radio and TV, at public talks, and in digital media. She was recently named one of ABC Radio National's Top 5 Scientists (2019). 

Dr Kirk previously worked as an executive at a public listed medical technology company - Tali Digital. In the role of Chief Research Officer she led the research and development of digital health interventions. 

Dr Kirk is passionate about research translation and uniting academia and industry to produce innovative evidence-based tools that have direct benefits for the community. She is a strong advocate for advancing gender equity in academia and industry, and promoting STEM careers for girls. 

Current research projects: 

• Alfi Virtual Reality: Improving inhibitory control in adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Pillar Project: Improving executive functions in primary school children across Victoria
• ATICA Project: Cognitive training in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)