Connected Conversations | Larry Fazzalari
Dedicating his time to helping Higher Degree by Research students with their experience at the University of Adelaide and, by extension, their life-changing research outcomes, Research Development Officer, Larry Fazzalari, loves the opportunity to meet and work with new people each and every day. Larry spends his spare time either hitting the green or doting on his wife, dog, cats, and ringtail possums in a cosy suburban log cabin.
Please tell us a little bit about yourself.
Hi, I’m Larry Fazzalari and I work in the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences’ Office of Research Development and Research Education team. I have been at the University of Adelaide for about three years now. Until recently, my title was Research Administrative Support Officer but, recently, I have been given the opportunity to enjoy the role of a Research Development Officer.
As part of my job, I try to help make our Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students’ university experience as smooth, enjoyable, and fulfilling as possible. This can stem from assisting with their enrolment, guiding them through any queries that arise, to helping to run their annual end-of-year research conference.
Away from work, I love getting out for a round of golf, going to the gym, and running. My wife and I love yummy food and great wine.
I got married earlier this year and am enjoying life in a log cabin in Myrtle Bank with my wife, dog, two cats, and two ringtail possums… and no, they’re not in my roof!
What do you love most about working at the University of Adelaide?
I am lucky that I work in a great team and every day is different — you never really know will happen next some days. I love the opportunity to meet and work with new and different people each day. I also love working in an environment where amazing life-changing research is being done and assisting those people achieve their goals and dreams.
Where’s your favourite spot on campus?
My favourite spot on campus is the Maths Lawns in front of the Barr Smith Library. I like to get out of office most days and that is such a beautiful place to have lunch, especially if the sun is out
Have you ever had a life-changing experience?
Meeting my wife — she is the best thing in the world! Although true, my wife did hijack my laptop and type this in herself… seriously!
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Haha, most people don’t know or believe that I’m a shy introvert.
What’s the motto that you live by?
‘Whatever, relax and give it a go!’
Also: ‘Never wear matching socks.’
What TV show are you currently bingeing?
I just finished watching a mini-series called Behind Her Eyes and it’s a big yes to recommending it, because it’s great! I’m currently watching Mr Inbetweenbecause I do love a bit of quality Aussie bogan drama.
What do you hope to achieve in the next 10 years?
I hope to get my golf handicap down to 10 or lower and run a marathon.