Natalie Krikowa

(She/they)

Dr. Natalie Krikowa (she/they) is a media scholar and practice-led researcher at the University of Technology Sydney, known for innovative contributions to the fields of digital media and communication. Natalie holds a Doctor of Creative Arts in media and cultural studies and currently teaches in digital media and screen storytelling.

Natalie’s research focuses on the intersection of media technology, cultural practices, and social justice, with a particular emphasis on giving voice to marginalised communities. Natalie’s work examines how digital platforms can be leveraged to amplify underrepresented narratives and influence public discourse. They collaborate with industry and media organisations to bridge the gap between academic research and industry practices, ensuring that their insights have practical, real-world applications. They are also a co-chief investigator for Community Risk Reduction Research Australia.

In addition to academic pursuits, Natalie is an accomplished creative practitioner. Their media projects (including Queer Representation Matters 2023), which highlight stories of marginalised individuals and communities, have been showcased in various esteemed forums including national and international film festivals and academic conferences.

Experience

  • 2022–present
    Senior lecturer in Communication, University of Technology Sydney
  • 2019–2022
    Lecturer in Communication, University of Technology Sydney

Education

  • 2017 
    University of Technology Sydney, Doctor of Creative Arts

Publications

  • 2025
    Documenting diversity on screen: interactive documentaries (i-docs) as tools for queer activism, Media Practice and Education
  • 2024
    Using co-designed smartphone apps to cultivate authentic communication and disaster risk resilience in multi-cultural communities, Media International Australia
  • 2023
    Embedding Indigenous cultural competencies within a digital media and communication context in Australian higher education, Higher Education Research and Development
  • 2023
    Queer Representation Matters (interactive documentary, www.queerrepresentationmatters.com
  • 2022
    Where Is Australia’s GLAAD? A Case for Establishing an Australian LGBTIQA+ Media Institute to Improve Diversity in Screen Media Representation, Alphaville: Journal of Film and Screen Media
  • 2022
    Archive-lensing of fan franchise histories: Chronicle, guide, catalyst, Journal of Transformative Works and Cultures
  • 2021
    Writing inclusive and diverse children's television: Transgender representation in ABC Australia's First Day, Journal of Screenwriting
  • 2021
    Reflexive transformative approach to student-centred learning: Insights from the frontlines of Australian higher education teaching during COVID-19, Journal of Public Relations Education
  • 2019
    Intervention as Activism: Advocating Queer Female Representation through Independent Film Production, Refractory: a journal of entertainment media

Grants and Contracts

  • 2022
    Use of culturally competent communication and mobile phone application technologies to reduce risk and increase community resilience
    Role:
    Co-Chief Investigator
    Funding Source:
    NSW Reconstruction Authority

Professional Memberships

  • Association of Internet Researchers (AoIR)
  • International Communication Association (ICA)
  • Australian Screen Production Education and Research Association (ASPERA)
  • Screenwriting Research Network (SRN)

Research Areas

  • Cultural Studies (2002)
  • Film, Television And Digital Media (1902)
  • Performing Arts And Creative Writing (1904)
  • Curriculum And Pedagogy (1302)

Contact Natalie for

  • General
  • Media request
  • Speaking request
  • Consulting / Advising
  • Research collaboration
  • Research supervision