Stories of STEM Q

Melanie Fillios, one of the archaeologists here at UNE, chats to James about the changing role and dynamic of universities, along with her research and the realities of archaeological careers.

Show Notes

Associate Professor Melanie Fillios is an archaeologist that specialises in human-animal interactions throughout history, and is currently the Director of Place Based Education and Research at the University of New England. In this interview we chat about the changing role of universities and the expectations that students and society place on universities. We also chat about Melanie’s research as an archaeologist, including the reality of what a career in archaeology looks like. More recently Melanie’s research has been looking into the history of dingoes in Australia and what their status is as a native Australian animal. Using archaeological knowledge to help answer these questions is crucial for properly managing Australia’s animal populations and understanding our cultural and ecological history. 

What is Stories of STEM Q?

The University of New England’s STEM Quarter (STEM Q) is a platform for regional partnerships. It seeks to become an engine of innovation by connecting industry & investment with research & education through mutually beneficial projects. By providing local industries and communities with a pathway to engage in research specifically focused on local challenges, the New England and North West region of New South Wales, Australia, is headed for incredible success.

Focused on the four key pillars – agribusiness, health and wellbeing, digital intelligence and enabling infrastructure, Stories of STEM_Q will introduce the brilliant people and projects in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths, contributing to the progressive and innovative change occurring across the region.