A new science fiction encyclopaedia has been published featuring entries by Melbourne Postgraduate Programs Facilitator Dr Tris Kerslake.

The Greenwood Encyclopedia of Science Fiction and Fantasy contains 600 topics with contributions from 150 experts in the genre.

A well published poet, fiction author and academic writer, Dr Kerslake composed twenty 1000 word entries for the three volume set. Her areas of specialisation include Imperial Politics; Galactic Empires; Frontiers in Space; Planetary Colonies and Exploration on the Frontier.

Dr Kerslake says her fascination with the genre began when she was a child.

“The first time I fell in love with science fiction was when I was 7 and read Edgar Rice-Burroughs’ A Princess of Mars ... I was unashamedly hooked!”.

After completing a Bachelor of Arts (Literature) with First Class Honours at Deakin University, Dr Kerslake undertook her PhD studies at La Trobe University. Research for her Thesis on The Role and Practice of Empire in Science Fiction led her to California and it was there she met the encyclopaedia’s editor Gary Westfahl who later invited her to contribute to the project.

Despite describing the process as “a fun thing to do”, Dr Kerslake says the books are a particularly valuable resource.

“Its primary application is the provision of research data in science fiction and fantasy, so it’s perfect for University students.

“I wish I’d had this available when I was doing my PhD ... it’s just got everything in there I would ever want.”.

Dr Kerslake is also sharing her knowledge and passion with students at CQU Melbourne, currently teaching Science Fiction and Film, and Informatics, Culture and Communication.