Curtin University has appointed John Curtin Distinguished Professor Melinda Fitzgerald as its Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research (DVCR) for the next five years.
Professor Fitzgerald has been in the role on an interim basis since June 2023, following the departure of Professor Chris Moran.
An international leader in neurotrauma research, Professor Fitzgerald is also chief executive officer of Connectivity Traumatic Brain Injury Australia and leads the world-first, nationwide Australian Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Study.
Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne said Professor Fitzgerald was the ideal candidate to oversee Curtin’s wide-ranging research activities.
“Professor Fitzgerald has an impeccable background in research leadership,” Professor Hayne said.
“We’ve already seen a positive impact on Curtin’s research community in Professor Fitzgerald’s time as interim DVCR, so we’re excited to see her continue in the position.
“We can’t wait to see the new heights Curtin’s research will reach under Professor Fitzgerald’s stewardship.”
Professor Fitzgerald has held several leadership positions since joining Curtin in 2013, including Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute Deputy Director, Faculty of Health Sciences Dean of Research and Associate DVCR.
Professor Fitzgerald said she was excited about what Curtin could achieve through its research over the next five years.
“Curtin leads research that Australia and our global partners need now and into the future, so I am delighted to be appointed as DVCR at Curtin University,” Professor Fitzgerald said.
“Our strengths in critical minerals, the clean energy transition, national resilience and security, radioastronomy and agriculture are entering new and exciting phases of growth; it’s a privilege to be able to guide and support this groundbreaking research and innovative developments.
“I thank the Research Office leadership team, the Curtin senior executive and our fantastic researchers that together, enable Curtin to make a positive difference.”
