A professor helping humanity deal with the deadly consequences of parasites, including malaria, has been named one of Australia’s top science teachers.



Prof Alexander Maier, from the ANU Research School of Biology, has taken out the science category in the 2023 Awards for Teaching Excellence, announced by Universities Australia.

The award recognises Prof Maier’s innovative approach to teaching the science of parasites, including through pop culture and even a flea circus, which challenges students’ preconceptions.

“Led by research, Alexander’s interdisciplinary, concept-based approach has generated exceptional outcomes in undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as professional development programs both nationally and internationally,” his award citation reads.

“Alex uses authentic tasks, role play and popular culture anecdotes to make parasitology a hands-on learning experience that extends well beyond the walls of the lecture theatre.”

Prof Maier said: “My students come into my courses knowing that parasites threaten the health of millions of people, but they don’t think about how they stabilise ecosystems and drive biodiversity.

“We also learn how to deal with complex systems and challenge our own values and moral compass.

“Each student has their own ambition and their own talents. And it’s my job to try to find out what drives those students and try to bring out the best of them so that they can contribute to the problem that those parasitic diseases actually represent.”