Curtin University has appointed Professor Jeremy Kilburn as the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, following the retirement of Professor Andris Stelbovics.
Professor Kilburn is currently Professor of Chemistry at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland, where he has also served as Senior Vice-Principal.
Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry said she was delighted with the result of the University’s global search for the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Science and Engineering.
“Over the last 20 years, Professor Kilburn has established an international reputation both as a respected chemistry researcher and in leading the expansion of important industry and global partnerships,” Professor Terry said.
“Professor Kilburn’s experience, expertise and strategic leadership aligns with Curtin University’s key priorities, including expanding our global footprint. I am pleased to welcome him as an outstanding new leader for the Faculty of Science and Engineering.”
Professor Kilburn’s achievements at the University of Aberdeen included providing executive leadership on trans-national education, including the Aberdeen-Curtin alliance that was announced in early 2017.
Previously, Professor Kilburn held senior leadership roles in Science and Engineering at Queen Mary University of London and the University of Southampton.
Professor Kilburn said he was honoured to be appointed by Curtin to lead a faculty that is a major contributor to many science and engineering-related industries in Australia and internationally.
“Curtin University is perfectly placed as one of Australia’s leading universities in science and engineering, with a focus on research that makes a real-world difference,” Professor Kilburn said.
“I am looking forward to ensuring the Faculty of Science and Engineering continues to deliver high-impact research and contributing to the strategic direction of the University.”
Professor Kilburn will take over the leadership role from Professor Andris Stelbovics, who retires from Curtin on 31 July.
Professor Stelbovics was recently awarded the title of John Curtin Distinguished Professor and will receive the title of John Curtin Distinguished Emeritus Professor on his retirement.
Professor Terry congratulated Professor Stelbovics on a wonderful career and thanked him for the significant contribution he made during his distinguished service at Curtin.
“Professor Stelbovics holds an esteemed national and international reputation in the field of physics,” Professor Terry said.
“He has been instrumental in strengthening Curtin’s research performance on the world stage and helping shape Curtin as a leading global university, and I take this opportunity to thank him for his committed service to the University.”
