Lecturer
Email ana.stojanov@otago.ac.nz
Originally from Macedonia, Ana completed an MPhil in Psychology and Education at the University of Cambridge and a PhD at the University of Otago, where she explored why people believe conspiracy theories.
Ana’s research broadly centres on using experimental methods to understand human behaviour, particularly in relation to misinformation, science denial, and science communication. She has published work on a range of topics, including how people respond to COVID-19 communications, the psychological underpinnings of conspiracy beliefs, and the potential of generative AI, such as ChatGPT, in acting as a science communicator for controversial topics. In 2020, her research on conspiracy theories received recognition from Wiley as the most cited and downloaded article. She has also written popular science articles and opinion pieces and appears regularly on podcasts, radio and TV interviews.
Ana is eager to support postgraduate students on their journeys in science communication. She additionally welcomes inquiries regarding potential PhD research projects.
Outside of work, Ana enjoys catching up with friends in Macedonia, playing board games with her family, and going for walks.
Current teaching
SCOM419 Special Topic: Key Voices in Science Communication (Semester 1)
Research interests
- Science denialism
- Conspiracy beliefs and public trust
- Trust in scientists
- Correcting misinformation
- The role of artificial intelligence in science literacy
- Crisis communication
- Unconventional beliefs and scientific reasoning
Potential postgraduate projects
I am interested in hearing from prospective PhD students, particularly those keen to conduct research using experimental methods.
Current PhD students
Yan Yang – "The Development and Validation of the Scale of Argumentation Competence"