Curtin University has appointed one of Australia’s most recognised sustainability practitioners as its first Dean of Sustainable Futures in the Faculty of Humanities.
Professor Josh Byrne, a respected environmental scientist, researcher and author, will lead the development of sustainable futures, one of four capability platforms to support learning, research and partnership activities for the Faculty of Humanities.
Curtin’s Faculty of Humanities Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Richard Blythe said he was honoured to welcome Professor Byrne as the new Dean because he was a champion of sustainability.
“Professor Byrne is a national leader in sustainability, with extensive research and industry experience in the urban design and development sector,” Professor Blythe said.
“Building on a long-standing relationship with the Curtin University Sustainability Policy Institute, Professor Byrne is committed to showcasing how sustainability can be progressed through research, industry projects and stakeholder collaborations.
“Professor Byrne is a demonstrated leader who engages in projects that provide opportunities to test innovation, build capacity and share outcomes with industry, stakeholders and the wider community. Curtin is honoured to welcome Professor Byrne back to lead this important new development in the faculty.”
Following the completion of his PhD, Professor Byrne was responsible for running nation-wide, demand-led research projects with Curtin and the Cooperative Research Centre for Low Carbon Living. He is also a regular media contributor, popular author and well-known presenter on ABC TV’s Gardening Australia program.
Professor Byrne said he was honoured to be appointed as the Dean of Sustainable Futures at a time when sustainability is becoming a priority for industry, government and the community.
“I am honoured to return to the University and take up the position as Dean to lead Curtin’s development of sustainable futures,” Professor Byrne said.
“Curtin has an excellent reputation in sustainability across research, teaching and outreach. As Dean, I am committed to working closely with teaching and research staff, industry and stakeholders to build on this success.”
Professor Byrne’s work has been recognised through various awards, including the Australian Water Association WA Water Professional of the Year, the Planning Institute of Australia WA Planning Champion, and Murdoch University’s Distinguished Alumni for Science and Engineering. He is also a member of the Waste Authority of Western Australia and the WA State Government Design Review Panel.
For more information about Curtin’s Faculty of Humanities, visit here.
