Brian Chapman graduated from Monash University, Melbourne with Bachelor of Medical Science (1966, majoring in physiology) and Doctor of Philosophy (1970, thesis title “Myothermic Investigations of Muscle Contraction”). His postdoctoral work on muscle energetics and vectorial metabolism led to his pioneering the use of mechanistic computer simulation for studying problems in theoretical physiology.

After an academic career in which he published over 30 scientific research papers, Brian then applied his interest in computer simulation to the creation of highly interactive software for computer-based learning. These activities began at the University of Melbourne’s Department of Physiology where Brian produced that university’s first electronic tutorial to be sold overseas in 1992.

He then directed Monash University’s Quality Education at a Distance (QED) Research Unit from 1994 to 1997, producing over 30 new titles in electronic learning resources and turning Monash University into a net exporter of electronic tutorials during that period.

By 1997 the activities of QED Research Unit were attracting sufficient interest for a viable privatisation move to be considered, and the activities of the unit became fully privatised on January 1, 1998 through the commercial operations of QED Interactive Pty Ltd which flourished for eight years as a supplier of CD-ROM and web-based learning applications for Monash University, the University of Melbourne, RMIT University, the Mt Eliza Business School and Tonart Productions (see Projects and Demonstrations).

Brian now continues these educational software developments as an independent contractor along with other academic activities, including medical teaching and scientific editing.

Brian is also a part-time professional concert pianist.