Research Team

Associate Professor Maria Estala Varua
Associate Dean, Research

Maria Estela was appointed Associate Dean Research for the School of Business in 2020.  In that role she works closely with the Office of the DVC & VP (Research, Enterprise & International), Research Institutes and REDI.  She represents the School at the Western Sydney Senate Research Committee and in the Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences Cluster.  Maria Estela provides leadership and vision to achieve the School’s research mission of ‘conducting impactful research relevant to enterprise and community’.  She ensures alignment to the University’s Research & Innovation Plan and exemplifies best practice as it relates to high quality research and research training.

Associate Professor Dilupa Nankandala
Associate Dean, Graduate Studies

Dilupa was appointed Associate Dean Graduate Studies for the School of Business in 2020.  In that role she is responsible for the HDR training portfolio within the School, working closely with the Office of the DVC & VP (Research, Enterprise & International), the Graduate Research School, Research Institutes and REDI.  Dilupa is responsible for the development and implementation of HDR training and supporting HDR Candidates to meet the School’s publication strategies.  She is instrumental in the establishment of the culture of support for the candidates and their families and supervisors.

Dr Aila Khan
Academic Program Advisor, Higher Degree Research

As Academic Program Advisor HDR, Aila supports students in the M Research, M Philosophy and PhD in their day to day progress through their program.  She is the student’s first port of call for advice, guidance and instruction.

Natalie Du
Research and HDR Administration Officer (Acting)*

Natalie provides high level administrative support to both the Research and HDR portfolios ensuring smooth progress and effective delivery of training, events, workshops and seminars.  She manages enquiries from prospective students as well as those enquiries coming to the School via the WBRC – Western Business Research Collaborative.

(*Ms Fiona Smith is currently on extended leave)