Researcher Biography

Iryna is a PhD candidate conducting a mixed method research focused on the social-emotional well-being of children in out-of-home care. She also works as a tutor and research assistant. Prior to commencing her PhD programme at the UQ Institute for Social Science Research, Iryna completed a Bachelor of Education and PhD in Education degrees at the National Pedagogical University (Kyiv, Ukraine) and started her career as a teaching academic for about ten years. Besides, Iryna worked closely with the International Organization for Migration (United Nations). After moving to Australia, she was granted a Queensland teacher registration. Iryna is passionate about using her knowledge and skills to positively contribute to the community, particularly to the lives of vulnerable and disadvantaged children.

PhD topic

The impact of out-of-home care on children's social-emotional wellbeing: A life course approach.

Advisors

  • Associate Professor Jenny Povey (Principal) 
  • Professor Janeen Baxter (Associate) 
  • Professor Karen Healy (Associate) 
  • Dr Maca San Martin Porter (Associate)

Research interests

  • Child well-being
  • Child welfare and protection
  • Disadvantage and inequality
  • Children’s resilience and risk factors
  • Life course theory
  • Education
  • Qualitative data analysis methods