6 July 2009
Professor Edward Byrne AO started work today as the eighth vice-chancellor of Monash University.
Professor Byrne was previously the Vice Provost (Health) of University College London and returns to Monash after being the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences from 2003 to 2007.
Professor Byrne, 56, succeeds Professor Richard Larkins AO who has served as Vice-Chancellor since September 2003.
Professor Byrne said he was excited to take leadership of Australia's largest university. "Monash has gone from strength to strength in its 50 years to become one of the world's great universities. Richard Larkins has continued the work of his predecessors to make the University academically stronger than ever before. I want to build on that and make the University an international beacon of teaching and research excellence," Professor Byrne said.
"As one of the world's first truly international universities, Monash has set on a bold course. My challenge as vice chancellor is to now fully realise the potential for Monash University to become a unique, truly international community of scholars who are leaders in the region - and the world.
"Monash University is well placed to go to the next level and in the years ahead become a new type of Australian university tackling the major problems of our age and distinguished by strong global connections and high-quality multi-disciplinary research.
"At Monash University we remain committed to making the fullest possible contribution to the social, economic, cultural and environmental well-being of communities in Australia and across the world." Professor Byrne said he was determined to maintain the University's position as one of the most sought after universities in Australia and the region by continuing to enhance the student experience and improve graduate outcomes.
"Monash already attracts around one in four first preferences from students in Victoria and has more applications from international students than any university in Australia. I want to show people what they are missing if they are not here and what they can achieve when they arrive," he said.
Monash University Chancellor, Dr Alan Finkel said Professor Byrne would be an outstanding asset. "Professor Byrne has a strong track record in medical research as a clinician and teacher combined with considerable management and corporate sector experience. His drive, vision and leadership skills will guide Monash University to an even brighter future," he said.
Monash University has campuses in Australia, Asia and South Africa, 56,000 students, 7000 staff and an enviable reputation for teaching and research excellence forged in just 50 years. It is rated among the top 50 universities in the world by The Times Higher Education Supplement and is a member of the prestigious research intensive Group of Eight universities.
For more information please contact Tim Mitchell on +61 3 990 34840 or 0437 457780.
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