Marine biologist Emma Johnston named Melbourne’s next v-c

Cut-through science communicator Emma Johnston has been named the first female vice-chancellor of the University of Melbourne, in a homecoming for the charismatic marine biologist and women’s advocate.

Professor Johnston’s meteoric rise through the ranks of academia has catapulted her from the level of lecturer to leader of the country’s top-ranked institution in the space of 15 years.

Along the way she has worked as a television presenter, headed representative group Science & Technology Australia, co-authored the federal government’s State of the Environment Report and led an influential research programme on life in Sydney Harbour.

She spent more than 20 years at UNSW Sydney, working her way from associate lecturer to dean of science and pro vice-chancellor for research before crossing town to become deputy vice-chancellor of the University of Sydney in 2022.

But she described herself as a “sixth generation Melburnian” and said her academic career had grown out of her “childhood curiosity” in the “wonders” of Melbourne’s Port Philip Bay.

Professor Johnston obtained her bachelor’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Melbourne, where she served on the governing council and academic board in her capacity as student union president in 1995.

She said the institution was a “research powerhouse” and a source of “resilient graduates” with flexibility and know-how. “I see the university as a foundation stone for the city, the state and the nation.”

Melbourne Chancellor Jane Hansen said Professor Johnston’s “passion for the transformative power of research and education” had stood out during a “comprehensive selection process” that had attracted an international field of candidates.

“She…has a keen understanding of the issues facing the sector [and] a profound awareness of the Australian political context,” Ms Hansen said. “[She] is a strong advocate and a cogent voice for higher education.”

Professor Johnston will assume the post in February. Incumbent vice-chancellor Duncan Maskell, who announced his departure last April, said he was “delighted” at her appointment. “I look forward to working closely with her to ensure a smooth leadership transition.”

john.ross@timeshighereducation.com