The Human Factors and Ergonomics Society of Australia (HFESA) will hold its 58th National Annual Conference from 19-22 November 2023 at the Adelaide Convention Centre. The conference theme this year is “Value and Vitality: The Impact of Human Factors and Ergonomics”. Practitioners and academics are encouraged to participate in presentations and workshops that showcase the importance, worth, need, significance, and power of human factors & ergonomics across diverse industries and applications.

Introducing Professor Jill Dorrian, Keynote Speaker

Jill Dorrian is a Professor of Psychology at the University of South Australia, where she leads the Sleep and Chronobiology Laboratory. She has a PhD in Psychology from Flinders University and has been researching the effects of sleep deprivation and circadian rhythms on human performance for over 20 years.

Dorrian’s research focuses on understanding the physiological and cognitive impacts of sleep deprivation, particularly on shift workers. Her work highlights the importance of sleep not only for individual health but also for workplace safety.

One of Dorrian’s recent studies explored the relationship between mobile phone use at night and sleep quality in children aged 8-18 years. The study found that mobile phone use before bedtime led to reduced sleep duration and quality, which had a negative impact on children’s mental and physical health. These findings are particularly important as more children are now using mobile devices as part of their daily routines.

Another recent study by Dorrian and her team investigated the impact of altered eating, sleep, and work patterns on human health. The study found that irregular schedules and long work hours can disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to sleep disturbances and other health problems. Dorrian’s research has demonstrated that lack of sleep and circadian rhythm disruption can lead to reduced cognitive performance, increased errors, and workplace accidents.

Recognition and Contributions

Dorrian’s work has significant implications for a wide range of industries, including healthcare, transportation, and the military. Her research has helped raise awareness of the importance of sleep and circadian rhythms in maintaining good health and preventing accidents.

Dorrian has also made significant contributions to the field of sleep science through her mentorship of PhD students and her involvement in professional organizations, such as the Australasian Sleep Association and the Sleep Research Society.

In recognition of her contributions to the field, Dorrian has received numerous awards and honours, including the prestigious Sleep Research Society Young Investigator Award in 2007.

Dorrian’s research has had important implications for industries that rely on shift work and irregular schedules, and her work has helped raise awareness of the importance of sleep for good health. Dorrian’s work will continue to contribute to our understanding of the role of sleep in human performance and well-being, and her research will undoubtedly help shape policies and practices that promote healthy sleep habits.

Why Attend the HFESA Conference?

Professor Dorrian’s extensive experience and contributions to the field of human factors and ergonomics make her an ideal keynote speaker for the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society of Australia’s 58th National Annual Conference. The conference provides an opportunity for attendees to learn from her expertise and connect with their colleagues in the industry.

Professor Dorrian’s keynote speech will be relevant for a wide range of professionals, including practitioners and academics who work in the fields of human factors, ergonomics, and occupational health and safety. In addition, anyone who is interested in learning about the impact of human factors and ergonomics across diverse industries and applications may find her speech informative and valuable.

The conference aims to stimulate reflection about work in these fields and provoke debate. It is an excellent opportunity for those who are passionate about human factors and ergonomics to share their work and learn from others. The conference is looking to make this event a hybrid conference, making it accessible to both in-person and online participants.

To stay up to date with conference follow the event page at https://www.ergonomics.org.au/events/hfesa-2023-conference/

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Prepared by Michael Dubos