Simone Marino

Dr. Simone Marino is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the School of Education in Edith Cowan University. He is also an Adjunct Research Fellow at the Social Ageing (SAGE) Futures Lab within ECU. His background in cultural anthropology and sociology has led him to explore the construction and transmission of ethnic identity among Italian-Australians. His current research focuses on migrants living with dementia, drawing on his passion for music, personal experiences, and ethnographic engagement.

As an immigrant researching migration and identity, Simone’s own journey to Australia informs his work. Co-located in both academia and the aged care sector, he navigates this in-between space between research and practice, which challenges his reflexive thinking and drives him to bridge gaps between academia and industry. This dynamic positioning is what excites him most.

Collaborating with Professor Loretta Baldassar, he co-designed the music engagement intervention Comusichiamo, which he now continues with a stronger emphasis on wellbeing under the guidance of Professor Narelle Lemon. He advocates for an approach that integrates storytelling and music alongside medical models, particularly for migrants who age out of place.

His identity as an anthropologist, immigrant, and musician nurtures a reflective approach to understanding participants’ experiences.