About Dr Oleksandra Molloy

I am a Ukrainian/Australian researcher and internationally renowned expert in uncrewed and autonomous systems in modern conflicts, particularly their role in the war in Ukraine.  

I work as a Senior Lecturer in Human Factors and Aviation Safety and serve as the Lead of the Human Factors Research Lab in the School of Science at the University of New South Wales at the Australian Defence Force Academy (Canberra, Australia).  

 I serve as a Defence Strategic Advisor, providing strategic advice on emerging defence capabilities, autonomous and unmanned systems, electronic warfare, counter-UxS, and defence innovation. My work focuses on translating operational lessons and emerging technologies into practical strategic insights, with a particular emphasis on Ukraine’s experience of modern warfare and its implications for Australia, NATO, and allied defence forces. I support international engagement, strategic partnerships, and opportunities to strengthen collaboration between defence, government, industry, and academia. 

Having led complex research projects focusing on uncrewed and autonomous systems, human factors, transport safety, education, and training, I spearheaded the first evidence-based research initiative between Ukraine and Australia titled “Drones in Modern Warfare: Lessons Learnt from the War in Ukraine,” which was supported by the Australian Army Research Centre, Department of Defence.  

My contributions have significantly informed defence organisations, governments, and industry stakeholders in Australia, Europe, North America, and Ukraine. I am frequently invited as a speaker at international defence forums and initiatives, including NATO bodies and International Defence institutions—such as NATO's Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre (JATEC), NATO Science & Technology workshops in Europe, the Drone Capability Coalition Summit, Australia-New Zealand-Ukraine Cooperation Forum, US Department of War Command, and Australian Parliament, along with other engagements with defence organisations and government agencies across allied nations.