DrMarcelo Tavares

Marcelo is a passionate science educator committed to student-centred teaching, accessibility, and educational innovation. He has taught across a range of chemistry and biochemistry units and now serves as Unit Chair for Biochemistry, which has one of the largest cohorts at Deakin. He received the 2026 Chemistry Educator of the Year Award from the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI).

His teaching focuses on making complex scientific concepts clear, engaging, and relevant. He aims to create stimulating learning environments that encourage students to become active and independent learners while building their confidence and understanding.

A central aspect of his educational practice is accessibility and inclusion. He has worked collaboratively to redesign learning resources, laboratory activities, and assessments for blind and visually impaired students in a discipline that relies heavily on visual representations. This work was recognised through the 2026 ADCET Accessibility in Action Award.

He is also exploring the responsible use of artificial intelligence in chemistry and biochemistry education, particularly in assessment design, student engagement, scientific communication, and activities that promote authentic learning. His background in computational chemistry provides an additional perspective that allows him to connect scientific research, digital technologies, and education.