Dr. Katie Zhukov

Biography

Katie Zhukov is a Senior Research Fellow at the Sir Zelman Cowen School of Music and Performance at Monash University. Her research expertise emphasizes music psychology, pedagogy, and the performance science frontier. Zhukov commenced her music journey as a performer and piano teacher in Ukraine, later migrating to Australia where she completed her undergraduate studies at the Elder Conservatorium, University of Adelaide, earning first-class honors in Music. She furthered her education with a Master's degree in Performance from the prestigious Juilliard School of Music, and obtained her PhD from the University of New South Wales, focusing on instrumental teaching in higher education. Her doctoral research revealed significant behavioral patterns between teachers and students during one-on-one instrumental lessons. Zhukov's postdoctoral experience includes a research fellowship at the University of Queensland where she developed innovative, evidence-based approaches to sight-reading training for university-level pianists. Throughout her academic career, she has received multiple accolades for her teaching efforts, published numerous articles in high-impact journals, and has actively contributed to major music conferences. Her ongoing research seeks to refine pedagogical strategies and enhance musicians' sight-reading skills, supported by substantial funding and collaborative projects with leading institutions. Zhukov is also a noted performer, appearing with orchestras and in recitals across Australia, showcasing Australian piano music and engaging with global music education communities.

Research Interests