Dr Oleksandra Molloy

Senior Lecturer

Dr Oleksandra Molloy is a Senior Lecturer in Aviation and Aviation Program Lead at the School of Science, the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Canberra, Australia. Dr Molloy is a research trailblazer and award-winning leader who conducts multi-disciplinary research in human factors, transport safety, and training. With a rapidly advancing career in human factors, transportation safety (aviation and road), advanced air mobility, uncrewed systems, and artificial intelligence, Dr Molloy leverages her expertise to drive meaningful change and innovation in these critical fields. Oleksandra’s research not only advances our understanding but also influences policy, education, and industry practices.

Some of the recent research in uncrewed systems led by Dr Molloy include investigating lessons learnt from the use of drones in the war in Ukraine (Australian Army Research Centre, Department of Defence) and developing AI-assisted approach to support situation awareness and cognitive load for Mission Aircrew (Defence Trailblazer). As the Lead of the Defence Trailblazer project together with CAE, the research team aim to develop a unique assessment system that leverages modern learning approaches and artificial intelligence to improve the training experience and performance of Australia’s Mission Aircrew. The focus of this research is on the acceleration and commercialisation of innovative solutions that address the critical training and operational requirements of the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

Dr Molloy has a PhD in Aviation (UNSW, Australia); a MSc in Human Factors (University of Nottingham, UK); a Master of Education and Linguistics (Central Ukrainian State Pedagogical University, Ukraine); a Graduate Research Certificate (Kirovograd Flight Academy of National Aviation University, Ukraine); and a Diploma in Aviation Safety (International Air Transport Association, Canada). Dr Molloy also serves as a Vice President of Education at the Advanced Air Mobility Institute (USA), Chair of the Human Factors Ergonomics Society Training Technical Group (USA), and a Chair of the Women in Road Safety Network (Australia).

In 2024, for her achievements, Dr Molloy has been named a winner – Best Researcher from the International Media and Education Studies; Best Training and Development Program by the Defence and National Security Workforce Awards; Woman of the Year by HFE WOMAN Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (USA); ADM Women in Defence Awards, Research & Development; Industry Leader in AAM by eVTOL Insights (UK); and a finalist Academic of the Year by the Australian Defence Industry Awards