Dr Louise Metcalf

Founder, GHEORG | Organisational Psychologist & Behavioural Scientist | AI Safety Systems | Psychology of Sustainability, Leadership & Organisational Health

Greater Sydney Area

About

At Gheorg, my mission transcends business—it's about forging technology to safeguard mental well-being, especially for the younger generation. Utilizing a robust foundation in behavioural research, I've steered strategic research direction and user behaviour analysis to align with our core goal: mitigating the negative psychological effects of digital devices. Our approach is hands-on, from designing insightful research studies to executing initiatives that resonate with our audience's needs. My tenure as Director of Behavioural Research has been marked by a relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. Our team's dedication has birthed cutting-edge applications, which stand testament to our deep-rooted commitment to change. With expertise in research methods and a proven track record in strategic leadership, we aim to continue our journey, transforming insights into actions that contribute to a healthier, more balanced digital ecosystem.

Experience

  • Lecturer/Tutor at Melbourne Institute of Technology
    Mar 2025 - Present · 1 yr 5 mos

    • Delivered engaging sessions for the Masters of Strategic Management Research program, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. • Assessed student performance through four comprehensive evaluations, including speeches and strategic plans, ensuring high academic standards. • Achieved a distinction average for all students, reflecting effective teaching methodologies and strong student engagement.

  • Founder and CEO, Director of Behavioural Research at Gheorg
    Jul 2019 - Present · 7 yrs 1 mo

    Gheorg’s objective is to build technology that mutes the mentally damaging impacts of mobile phones, apps etc for children and eventually for adults. Director of Behavioural Research Responsibilities: Strategic Research Direction: o Developed and implemented a comprehensive behavioural research strategy aligned with the company's goals. o Identified key research questions and methodologies to understand user behaviour and preferences. Research Planning and Execution: o Designed and oversaw research studies to gather actionable insights. o Utilised a range of research methods to analyse data effectively. User Behaviour Analysis: o Analysed user behaviour patterns, motivations, and decision-making processes to inform development. o Collaborated with cross-functional personnel to translate research findings into recommendations. Product Innovation and Optimisation: o Worked closely with product development teams to integrate behavioural insights into product design and features. o Continuously optimised products/services based on user feedback. Market and Competitive Analysis: o Conducted market research to understand industry trends and competitive landscapes. o Identified opportunities and threats. Team Leadership and Collaboration: o Built and lead a team of behavioural researchers, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. o Collaborated cross-functionally with product, marketing, and design personnel to ensure behavioural insights are integrated across the organization. Industry Engagement and influence: o Forged partnerships with industry stakeholders, including businesses, government agencies, and professional organisations, to enhance collaboration and knowledge exchange. o Facilitated media opportunities to expand knowledge of impacts of technology on children and how to mitigate effects. This is one my articles, used by a startup in Singapore: https://k-id.com/how-gaming-with-your-child-keeps-them-safe-and-grows-essential-life-skills/

  • Founder and CEO at futureproofology
    Aug 2008 - Present · 18 yrs

    Change Strategy Development: o Collaborated with client stakeholders to develop tailored change strategies and transformation roadmaps. o Conducted thorough assessments and analyses to identify change readiness and potential barriers. Change Implementation and Execution: o Oversaw the implementation of change initiatives, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and timelines. o Provided guidance and support to client teams throughout the change process, addressing resistance and fostering buy-in. Stakeholder Management: o Built and maintained strong relationships with key stakeholders at various levels within client organisations. o Communicated change plans effectively, addressing concerns and ensuring transparency throughout the process. Performance Measurement and Analysis: o Developed metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the success and impact of change initiatives. o Analysed data and feedback to assess the effectiveness of implemented changes and make adjustments as needed. Team Leadership and Collaboration: o Led and mentored a team of consultants, providing guidance and support in client engagements. o Collaborated with internal teams to leverage expertise and resources to deliver comprehensive solutions.

  • Macquarie University (13 yrs 1 mo)
    • Assoc. Researcher and Project Lead, Australian Research Institute for Environment and Sustainability
      Jan 2015 - Feb 2024 · 9 yrs 2 mos

      Strategic Leadership: o Developed and implemented a strategic vision for ARIES aligning research priorities with the university's mission and goals. o Provided leadership in setting research goals, priorities, and performance metrics. Research Management: o Oversaw the planning, execution, and evaluation of research projects, ensuring alignment with the centre's strategic objectives. o Fostered a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment, promoting excellence in research across various disciplines. Funding and Grants: o Identified and pursued external funding opportunities, grants, and partnerships to support the centre's research initiatives. o Provided guidance and support to researchers in securing research funding. Team Development: o Recruited, mentored, and led a team of researchers and support staff. o Fostered a culture of collaboration, innovation, and academic excellence within the research centre. Collaboration and Networking: o Cultivated relationships with external research organisations, industry partners, and funding agencies. o Facilitated collaboration between the research centre and other university departments, promoting interdisciplinary research initiatives. Research Dissemination: o Promoted the dissemination of research findings through publications, conferences, and other knowledge-sharing platforms. o Enhanced the visibility and impact of the centre's research at national and international levels.

    • Associate Lecturer
      Feb 2011 - Dec 2014 · 3 yrs 11 mos

      Teaching and Curriculum Development: o Designed and delivered postgraduate courses in psychology, ensuring alignment with the department's curriculum and learning objectives. o Developed and updated course materials, incorporating relevant research and real-world applications. Student Engagement: o Fostered an inclusive and supportive learning environment that encouraged active student participation, critical thinking, and intellectual curiosity. o Provided timely and constructive feedback on student assignments and assessments. Research and Scholarship: o Conducted and published research in the field of psychology, change and business contributing to the academic profile of the department and the university. o Encouraged student involvement in research projects and supervised student research initiatives. Advising and Mentorship: o Provided academic and career advising to students pursuing psychology degrees. o Mentored students in their academic and professional development, offering guidance on research projects and career paths. Professional Development: o Stayed current with developments in the field of psychology, incorporating new knowledge into teaching and research activities. o Attended conferences, workshops, and seminars to enhance professional expertise. Service and Collaboration: o Engaged in departmental and university service activities, such as committee work and participation in academic events. o Collaborated with colleagues on interdisciplinary initiatives and projects.

  • Research Scientist at Nature For All
    Sep 2017 - Jun 2019 · 1 yr 10 mos

    Designed and conducted experiments to investigate mental health and natural environment, including planning protocols, data collection, and analysis. Collaborated with international multidisciplinary team to develop and execute research projects, contributing expertise in mental health Analysed experimental data using statistical methods and computational tools, interpreting results and drawing meaningful conclusions. Prepared parts of the full research report, that was then published and presented at the United Nations. Stay current with advancements in the field, critically evaluating relevant literature and integrating new findings into research projects. Contribute to grant writing and funding proposals to support research initiatives and secure external funding. Mentor and supervise junior research staff, providing guidance and support in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing. Maintain laboratory equipment, ensure compliance with safety protocols, and oversee day-to-day operations in the research laboratory.