Murdoch appoints new VC

Andrew Deeks, a former engineering professor and head of school at the University of Western Australia, has been appointed vice-chancellor of Murdoch University.

Professor Deeks was born in the UK and raised in Western Australia, and earned his PhD from the University of Western Australia in 2004.

He became Winthrop Professor, Civil and Resource Engineering, at UWA in 2004 and was Head of School from 2004 to 2009.

He later moved to the University of Durham as pro vice-chancellor before becoming the second non-Irish president of University College Dublin in 2014.

Murdoch chancellor Gary Smith this afternoon said he was delighted Professor Deeks had accepted the position, calling him an outstanding candidate to lead the university.

“Andrew brings significant academic and leadership experience to the role and he has already indicated to me a strong respect for the unique history and culture of Murdoch University," he said.

“I look forward to working with Andrew in building on our outstanding global reputation for the quality of our research, learning and teaching and preparing our graduates to deal with the significant global challenges we confront in the face of a growing population, food and water shortages and a changing climate.”

Professor Deeks in turn praised the university's global reputation, stating his ambition was for Murdoch to be recognised globally as the model of a modern university.

“I am looking forward to working with colleagues from across the academic disciplines and professional services to realise the potential that lies within the university, and to provide a student experience which defines international best practice," he said.

“I am particularly excited to be part of Murdoch University’s Reconciliation Action Plan, as this is an agenda which has moved forward considerably during my time abroad.”

Professor Deeks will serve a five-year term from April, taking over from Jane den Hollander.

She has served as the university's interim vice-chancellor since October, taking on the role after Romy Lawson, who was appointed acting vice-chancellor following Eeva Leinonen's departure earlier this year, moved to Flinders University to take a senior leadership position.