Sharon Varela

Dr Sharon Varela has worked in the health industry as a psychologist for over 18 years, with experience in clinical, sport, forensic, disability, and health. Sharon transferred her skills to the academic environment in 2016 when she commenced a position with the Murtupuni Centre for Rural and Remote Health in Longreach, Central West Queensland. Sharon completed her PhD (UQ, 2017) thesis in the areas of sport and clinical psychology. Her project focused on resilience in sport, with a focus on young people. Her research included a collaboration with the University Of Washington, with a part of her project including a Seattle, US sample.

Sharon's research interests include mental health, resilience, rural and remote health and workforce, and supervision.