Amanda Meyer

As an educator deeply committed to the advancement of medical education, my journey began with the completion of my PhD in Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences at The University of Western Australia, which was conferred in early 2007. This foundational qualification provided the basis for my continued dedication to advancing knowledge in the medical sciences. 

Since February 2012, I have had the privilege of teaching human anatomy at the tertiary level, first at Murdoch University, then at The University of Western Australia, and now at James Cook University. I’ve taught over 9,000 students—from first-year undergraduates to doctoral candidates—creating a rich and inclusive learning environment. By utilising cadaveric prosections and clinical images, I strive to make anatomy a subject that is engaging, comprehensible and transferable.

My dedication to teaching has been recognised through various awards, including two UWA Student Guild Students’ Choice Awards and the 2022 UWA School of Human Sciences Individual Teaching Excellence Award. I aim to embrace the diverse backgrounds of my students, tailoring my approach to foster a sense of belonging in the classroom.

In addition to my teaching, I have remained committed to research and scholarship, publishing 20 peer-reviewed manuscripts since 2014, with a field-weighted citation impact that is 465% above the global average. Collaborative efforts comprise 75% of my research outputs, reflecting my belief in the importance of national and international partnerships in advancing knowledge in the anatomical sciences.

With a strong affinity for neuroanatomy, I have worked hard to produce, "A textbook of neuroanatomy: third edition" alongside retired Profesor Maria Patestas & retired Professor Leslie Gartner (both from the United States of America). This textbook is a comprehensive review of the central nervous system and incorporates the latest research and clinical data.

I leverage digital technologies to enhance the teaching and learning experience, utilising platforms like Moodle and Blackboard to create interactive H5P products and instructional videos. My innovative assessment strategies, which incorporate post-assessment SWOT analyses promote sustainability, efficiency, and reflection in educational practices.

My roles extend beyond the classroom as well. Having previously served as Council Member and Treasurer of the Australian and New Zealand Association of Clinical Anatomists, and now as a Founding Member of the Global Neuroanatomy Network, and as a Reviewer Board Member for the Anatomical Sciences Education journal has allowed me to contribute to the broader academic community and influence the future landscape of national and global anatomical education.

Through my work in teaching surgical anatomy at the postgraduate level, I continue to prepare students not only for careers in healthcare but also for global engagement, cultural competence, and active citizenship in their communities. My journey embodies a commitment to enhancing students' lives and shaping a brighter future in health sciences, one rooted in inclusivity, innovation, and respect for the diverse cultures and perspectives of my students.