Two senior appointments for Science and Engineering

Two new senior appointments have been announced for the Faculties of Science and Engineering.

Professor Dave Harper will take the role as Dean of Science for the Faculty of Science, and Professor Mengjie Zhang is the new Associate Dean (Research and Innovation) for the Faculty of Engineering.

Professor Mike Wilson, Pro Vice-Chancellor for the Faculties of Science, Engineering, Architecture and Design, says that he looks forward to working with Professor Harper and Professor Zhang in their new roles.

“I consider myself very fortunate to have two individuals of such high calibre supporting me in my role,” he says.

Professor Harper has taught at Victoria University in the School of Psychology for nearly 21 years and although he calls the Easterfield building ‘home’, is looking forward to taking up a new leadership role.

“It’s a time of change and I’m really excited to be part of things moving forward, both as a University and a Faculty,” he says.

Professor Zhang, a Computer Science Professor, has been Deputy Head of School and Chair of the Research Committee for the School of Engineering and Computer Science for the past three years.

The genetic programming specialist says that there are real opportunities to make Engineering at Victoria thrive in New Zealand.

“I’m looking forward to working with others across the Faculty and University to make our Engineering research programs innovative and unique.”

Both roles take effect on Monday 3 November 2014.