Rate My Professor Zachary Russell

Dr Zachary Russell serves as an Assistant Lecturer and Teaching Fellow in the Sociology section of Monash University's School of Social Sciences within the Faculty of Arts. Having joined the university upon completing his PhD in Sociology in August 2022, his doctoral thesis, titled 'Acculturation and Intergroup Relations: Chinese and Anglo-Australians in Australia,' reflects his deep engagement with themes of cultural integration and social dynamics. Russell's academic journey began with a BSc in Political Science from the University of Nebraska Omaha in 2003, followed by an MSc in Migration, Ethnic Relations and Multiculturalism from Utrecht University in 2005. His master's thesis examined 'Reacting to Terrorism: Comparing the influence of the terrorist threat on military, social, and immigration policy before and after September 11, 2001,' highlighting his early interest in political psychology and security policy.

In his current role, Russell coordinates the Behavioural Studies major and delivers key undergraduate units including ATS2400 Personality: Beyond the Persona and ATS2256 The Mind, the Self and Political Behaviour. He also teaches the interdisciplinary postgraduate unit Advanced Simulation during Trimester 2 and summer sessions. As Chief Examiner, Unit Coordinator, and Lecturer, he collaborates with teaching teams to run workshops and contributes to the School of Social Sciences Education Committee. His research specializations include quantitative research, cross-cultural psychology, political psychology, acculturation discrepancy, intergroup and intragroup relations and processes, anti-racism, mental health and well-being, terrorism and political violence, identity politics, migration, integration, acculturative stress, racism, self-discrepancy, and policy. Russell's work supports UN Sustainable Development Goals such as SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions). Notable publications comprise the 2013 commissioned report 'Choosing to act: bystander action to prevent race-based discrimination and support cultural diversity in the Victorian community' co-authored with Darren Pennay, Kylie Webster, and Yin Paradies; the 2009 conference paper 'Perceptions of Extremism Among Muslims in Australia' with Rachel Woodlock; and the 2006 conference paper 'Reacting to Terrorism: Comparing the influence of the perceived threat of international terrorism on policy attitudes before and after September 11, 2001.' He is currently accepting PhD students.