Executive Dean ready to take the lead

An experienced researcher known for her strong leadership and industry collaborations has joined The University of Queensland as Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology.

Professor Vicki Chen started the role at UQ this week after four years as Head of the School of Chemical Engineering at the University of New South Wales.

She said she felt honoured to take on the role and looks forward to tackling new challenges and working with the staff, students, and partners of the Faculty.

“UQ has made some incredible engineering breakthroughs over the years and is at the leading edge of many areas of exciting research,” Professor Chen said.

“It’s an incredible privilege to join the University and the faculty at this time with disciplines such as mining and mineral engineering ranked number one in the world.”

Professor Chen is a highly successful researcher with close to 7000 citations.

She was previously the Director of UNESCO Centre for Membrane Science and Technology and has experience in leading major multi-institutional, collaborative projects with international and industrial partners.

Outcomes of Professor Chen's industry collaborations include the development of antifouling technologies, novel membranes for water purification and brine treatment, and high performance nano-composite membranes for carbon dioxide separation.

Professor Chen will be responsible for the strategic, academic and administrative leadership of the faculty, and its schools and centres.

“I look forward to continuing to build on our collaborations and partnerships both within Australia and internationally,” she said.

“I particularly look forward towards further increasing UQ’s standing as a global university.”

Outgoing Acting Executive Dean Professor Michael Brünig said he was confident the Faculty would continue on its current path to success

“I am pleased to report that EAIT is on a great trajectory and I believe we are all looking forward to taking this great enterprise of schools and centres to the next level with Professor Chen,” he said. 

Professor Brünig has returned to his role as Head of the School of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering.

MEDIA: UQ Communications, Paige Ashby, p.ashby@uq.edu.au, 0430 511 615.