Emi Terpstra is pursuing a PhD in intercultural communication focused on international diplomacy. She has taught intermediate and advanced Japanese language courses at the Australian National University (ANU) for over a decade and also facilitates Japanese language classes for Australian Government officials for professional development and training.

Her research explores the intercultural communication challenges faced by international diplomats in international negotiations and engagement. Beyond the acquisition of foreign language skills, understanding different intercultural communication methodologies, models, norms and frameworks is an underlying driver of successful bilateral collaboration and cooperation in developing and strengthening international agreements, regulations and strategic partnerships between the governments of Australia and Japan.