Dr Shahab Pourfakhimi is a Senior Lecturer and the Associate Dean (Learning & Teaching) at the School of Business and Creative Industries, University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC). A recognised leader in learning and teaching, Shahab has driven innovations in curriculum design, integrating cutting-edge technologies to enhance student learning experiences. His leadership in fostering digital transformation and innovative pedagogies has contributed to UniSC’s progressive approach to education.
Shahab's research focuses on understanding consumer behaviour in tourism, hospitality, and events, with a particular emphasis on the socio-psychological dimensions of decision-making. His work explores how tourists’ choices and experiences influence their well-being and quality of life, particularly through the adoption of smart and emerging technologies.
He is currently leading several global research initiatives, collaborating with international scholars and industry partners to examine the interplay between tourism experiences, technology, and human well-being. His research offers valuable insights into consumer behaviour, while also deepening the understanding of how tourism can positively impact well-being and enhance overall quality of life.
Awards and Scholarships
- USC Business School Engagement Award (2019)
- The International Federation for IT and Travel & Tourism Award for the best doctoral research proposal (2014), Dublin, Ireland
- Internet NZ Conference Support Grant (2013), Internet NZ Foundation, Wellington, New Zealand
- The University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship Award (2013), Dunedin, New Zealand
- The University of Malaya Bright Sparks Scholarships Awards (2013), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- CIPD Short Term Grant, University Technology Malaysia (2012), Johor, Malaysia
- The University Technology Malaysia Best Postgraduate Student Award (2012), Johor, Malaysia
Professional Memberships
- International Federation for Information Technology and Travel & Tourism
- The Council for Australasian Tourism and Hospitality Education
Professional Social Media
Research areas
- tourism and hospitality consumer behaviour
- tourism and hospitality consumer neuroscience
- etourism
- tourism and hospitality marketing
- tourism destination branding
Teaching areas
- Consumer Behaviour
- Tourism, Hospitality and Events Marketing
- Tourism, Hospitality and Events Management
- Information and Communication Technologies in Tourism, Hospitality and Events
- Tourism Policy and Planning
Shahab Pourfakhimi’s specialist areas of knowledge include consumer behaviour, social media, information and communication technologies, destination branding, marketing and management in tourism, hospitality and events