Dr Paula Facal Marina

Dr. Paula Facal Marina is an accomplished educator and researcher, currently working as an Online Course Facilitator for UniSA Online. In this role, she develops and delivers high-quality online education in enabling programs and engineering-related subjects, focusing on student engagement, innovative teaching strategies, and digital learning integration.

She holds a PhD in Applied Science and Materials from the Future Industries Institute (FII - University of South Australia), complemented by a Graduate Certificate in Digital Learning (UniSA, 2022). Additionally, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Chemistry from the University of Buenos Aires (ranked #66 in QS Global World Rankings 2021) and a Master’s in Science and Technology of Colloids and Interfaces from the University of Vigo, Spain. Her postdoctoral research was conducted at the FII and CHS (Applied Chemistry and Translational Biomaterials (ACTB) group) at UniSA, where she contributed to interdisciplinary research in advanced materials.

Teaching and Leadership

Dr. Facal Marina is a dedicated leader in higher education, with extensive experience in curriculum development, student engagement, and academic program management across multiple institutions. Previously, she was the Discipline Lead for the Diploma of Engineering at Flinders University (until December 2024), where she oversaw curriculum development, program management, and student mentorship. Before that, she served as Academic Coordinator at the South Australian Institute of Business and Technology (SAIBT), leading efforts in curriculum restructuring, student support, and the transition to blended and online learning.

Since graduating from UniSA, she has taught numerous STEM courses, demonstrating a passion for education and research in both Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and Clinical and Health Sciences (CHS). As a Higher Education Academy (HEA) Fellow, she has received international recognition for her commitment to professionalism in teaching and learning in higher education. She embraces innovative pedagogical strategies, authentic assessments, and technology-enhanced learning to improve student outcomes.

Research and Industry Contributions

Dr. Facal Marina's research interests lie in advanced materials, with a particular focus on industrial and biomedical applications. Her expertise in polymer chemistry, colloid science, and nanotechnology has driven innovation in antibacterial materials, cancer treatment technologies, and functional coatings. She has actively collaborated on industry-funded projects, translating fundamental research into real-world applications.

As a research-informed educator, she integrates cutting-edge scientific discoveries into her teaching, ensuring students gain exposure to the latest developments in their fields. Her ability to bridge fundamental science with practical applications highlights her dedication to fostering a deeper understanding of complex scientific concepts among students.

Ongoing Engagement

Dr. Facal Marina remains actively involved in industry partnerships, STEM education research, and professional development initiatives, ensuring her teaching and research continue to drive innovation. She is committed to mentoring students and early-career academics, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in academia, industry, and beyond.

Qualifications

• Doctor of Philosophy The University of South Australia

Work history

Teaching & Academic Leadership

• Online Course Facilitator – UniSA Online (Current)
• Discipline Lead – Diploma of Engineering – Flinders University (2021 – Dec 2024)
• Academic Coordinator – Diploma of Engineering & IT – South Australian Institute of Business and Technology (SAIBT) (2017 – 2022)
• Online Tutor & Course Facilitator – UniSA STEM (2013 – Present)
• Course Developer Coordinator – UniSA EDC (Curriculum design & online learning development)
• Teaching Experience in STEM Courses – Physics, Chemistry, Engineering Materials, Mathematics, and Numeracy
• Professional Development Leadership – Mentoring academic staff, course design, and assessment innovation
• HEA Fellowship – Recognition for excellence in higher education teaching

Research Experience

• Research Associate – School of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Adelaide (2020 – 2022)
• Research Associate – School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, UniSA (2017 – 2020)
• Research Assistant – Future Industries Institute, UniSA (2016 – 2017)
• Research Fellow – Nanotechnology & Surface Analysis, CACTI (University of Vigo, Spain) (2010 – 2011)
• Research Assistant – Colloid Chemistry Group, University of Vigo (2012 – 2013)
• Research Fellowship in Electron Microscopy – CACTI, University of Vigo (2012 – 2013)
• Research Assistant – School of Industrial Engineering, University of Vigo (1998 – 2008)
• Contributions to Industry-Funded Projects

1. Antibacterial meshes for hernia repair – Hospital Research Foundation
2. Thermo-responsive gel for localized CAR-T cell delivery – Cell Therapy Manufacturing CRC
3. Nanoparticles for cancer detection and treatment – University of South Australia
4. Magnetic nanoparticles for microwave coatings – Frinova, University of Vigo

Industry Experience

• Field Chemistry Technician – wastewater treatment plants - Inserpyme Global (06/10-11/10)
• Field Service Consultant - Mira Novas Tecnoloxias S.L. (09/09-05/10)
• Business agent and consultant for corporate training and development - Activa Formacion (01/09-06/09)