CQU appoints renowned criminologist to research centre
CQUniversity is pleased to announce the recent appointment of Associate Professor Xanthe Mallet to the Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research (QCDFVR).
With a wealth of experience in forensic science, criminology and gendered violence, Assoc Prof Mallett brings a valuable perspective to the Centre’s work, particularly in supporting victim-survivors and enhancing law enforcement efforts in the fight against domestic and family violence (DFV).
Assoc Prof Mallett holds an impressive academic background, with degrees across the United Kingdom: undergraduate Archaeological Science at the University of Bradford, a Masters in Biological Anthropology from the University of Cambridge, and a PhD in Forensic Facial Recognition from the University of Sheffield.
With years of experience working as a forensic scientist, Assoc Prof Mallett has specialised in forensic human identification, criminology and offender-victim dynamics.
"My research interests have evolved towards understanding the intersection between gendered violence, victimisation and offending behaviours, with a specific focus on how we can leverage forensic science and criminology to better identify offenders and assist victims," Assoc Prof Mallett said.
"Working with the QCDFVR team, which is renowned for its impact and reach, provides me with the opportunity to further my capacity to assist in solving cold cases, increasing public awareness of domestic and family violence issues, and supporting law enforcement in their efforts to hold offenders accountable."
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With a long history of media engagement, Assoc Prof Mallett is frequently sought after for expert commentary on both contemporary and historical cases, including high-profile investigations such as the William Tyrrell abduction, Jack the Ripper, Keli Lane, and Kathleen Folbigg cases.
"One case that always stands out to me is the abduction of Cleo Smith in 2021,” she remarked.
"At the time, I believed Cleo was likely deceased, as a child abducted by a stranger statistically is only kept alive for around three hours.
“But when Cleo was found alive and unharmed, it was a powerful reminder that every case is unique, and we must remain open to all possibilities, regardless of the statistics or our initial assumptions."
As part of the broader CQU community, Assoc Prof Mallett is excited to contribute to the continued growth of the QCDFVR, a Centre at the forefront of research addressing domestic and family violence in Australia.
"I’m looking forward to collaborating across departments within the University, as well as building relationships with external partners, to expand the Centre's work in meaningful ways," she said.
Director of QCDFVR Associate Professor Heather Lovatt said the appointment was a huge benefit for the Centre.
“We are excited to have a researcher and teacher of Xanthe’s calibre join our multi-disciplinary team,” Assoc Prof Lovatt said.
“The Centre’s staff come from diverse research and practice backgrounds, and Xanthe’s leadership and perspectives will add significantly to our endeavours to learn and share more how to best prevent and respond to gendered violence
As part of Assoc Prof Mallett’s upcoming projects she hopes to explore the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in solving cold cases, identifying offenders, and helping to prevent victimisation.
"AI holds tremendous promise for the future of criminology and forensic science. I’m excited to be at the forefront of this innovative area of research.”
