Dirk has a deep fascination with the way psychology, tools and technologies shape the behaviour of individuals, groups and cultures. Through a unique approach involving experimentation and computational techniques, he develops a deeper understanding of complex socio-technical systems and designs evidence-based methods, tools and systems that tackle seemingly unsolvable problems.
Dirk has coordinated and implemented courses and workshops on data analysis, experimental and measurement techniques for clients in industry and the public sector, and has a strong ability to synthesise qualitative and quantitative data, translating data into compelling narratives and behavioral insights.
Dirk has led research-driven projects across areas such as behavioural software engineering showing how culture and social dynamics affect teams and their ability to perform in different settings; research for the Defence Science and Technology Group that shows how personality and social values shape the public’s perception of biotechnology; and mixed-method research engaging with clients from Armed Forces and industry in the US and Australia, to develop insights into how the neuroscience of learning, synthetic training and simulation strategies can deliver efficient and effective training environments and programs.
Dirk has a Phd in Psychology, a postgraduate qualification in higher education, and research experience in psychology and computer science.