John Smithson

Dr John Smithson is an Associate Professor with approximately 14 years academic experience. He is a registered pharmacist and registered nurse with extensive experience in both the public remote and regional hospitals and private community and consultant pharmacy sectors.

His professional academic interests include exploring institutional systems and processes to improve teaching and learning quality, using novel teaching methods to improve job readiness of undergraduate students, improving prescribing quality and reliance on evidence-based practice and evaluation. Dr Smithson's areas of research also include scope of professional practice and the use of simulation in teaching. He has had extensive teaching experience including the implementation of simulation experiences in undergraduate curriculums and broader curriculum planning and implementation experience across a range of professional health degrees. Dr Smithson has led a number of large curriculum redevelopment projects and new curriculum launches. He has extensive experience in project management and curriculum design. Dr Smithson has held senior executive roles in the Faculty and Division and is currently the Head of Pharmacy at James Cook University.

Dr Smithson enjoys the sport of field archery and is also a keen sailor. He particularly enjoys sailing in stormy weather as he believes it is good preparation for academic practice.