Staff Awards Winners Gallery 2016

CONGRATULATIONS!

Andrew Foreman

2015 SENATE MEDALFor outstanding service to the University

Mr Andrew ForemanTechnical Resources Manager

School of Engineering and Information Technology

Please tell us when you first joined the Murdoch community. How would you describe your role at Murdoch? What contribution does your role make to the university as a whole?

I first joined Murdoch University as a student in 1988 and then commenced work here in 1991. My current role is to ensure the appropriate management of the School of Engineering & Information Technologies considerable technical expertise, facilities, technological and physical resources.

CONGRATULATIONS!Andrew Foreman

2015 Senate Medal

Please tell us about what inspires you to go beyond the call of duty in your role at Murdoch.

I find it inspiring to see students learn from the activities that both I and my staff participate in and also from the personal growth of the staff that I have involvement with in relation to their willingness to learn new material and transfer that knowledge to assist in the development of the new scientists the University is graduating.

Is there anyone from your team and the Murdoch community you’d like to acknowledge for your success? What have they done to help you?

Without any doubt I would like to acknowledge technical group I manage currently especially the Chemistry technical group as they are the ones that do much of the hard work that I would say makes the area a success. I would also like to thank many of the past Chemistry technicians I have worked with and I would like to make special mention of past supervisors and mentors Doug Clarke and Tom Osborne for their direction and training over many years.

What kind of achievements would you like to see from the Murdoch community in the next 3 -5 years?

I would like to see Murdoch University invest in a flag ship Science building for both teaching and research and maybe even a characterization laboratory that may improve efficiency of use of high end instrumentation.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Professor David Macey


Professor David Macey (retired)


I joined in 1976 as a PhD student. My role has been varied and jack of all trades, first as academic (for 25 years), then as Head of Admissions and Recruitment, then as the Head of Student Services, then Pro Vice Chancellor and Faculty Dean, Science and Engineering, then as Academic Chair for Medicine and Domain Chair, Basic and Clinical Science in the School of Medicine at Notre Dame Fremantle.

CONGRATULATIONS!Professor David Macey

2015 Senate Medal


It’s been great fun being able to help people!

Watching as the lights go on in a student when teaching a difficult concept; giving people the opportunity of a life time – a university education – even though they may not realise it at the time! Convincing those, both students and staff, who think they cannot do something that it is well within their capabilities, and then watching whilst they shine!

All very rewarding!


So many people from all areas of the campus all through my career at Murdoch! But in particular, for getting me to Australia in the first place, Prof Ian Potter; my long term research partners Profs John Webb and Tim St Pierre; from student services, Jeff Hollett and the late Prof Roger Lethbridge, Jan Christie, Tim Martin and Frank White; and of course all of the staff in the School of Medicine at Notre Dame.


Increasing our profile as a successful and supportive university environment within the Perth community.Success in developing the new health orientated outcomes, both teaching and research, and growing a vibrant South Street campus with close connections to both hospitals over the road.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Associate Professor Bev Thiele


Associate Professor Bev ThieleAcademy, School of Arts


Bev started at Murdoch in July 1977, as a tutor. By 1988 she had completed her PhD and secured her first continuing appointment. The next two decades were devoted to teaching and research in Women’s Studies. She supervised to completion 22 Honours, two Masters and 16 PhD students. An active campus citizen, she served on numerous program, school and university committees, and in mid-2008 was elected President of Academic Council. Two years later, after briefly acting in the role, she was appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic). She remained in that role until May 2012, when she stepped down to become PVC Quality and Standards, overseeing the University’s re-registration with the new regulatory agency, TEQSA. At the conclusion of that contract (June 2013) she reverted to her substantive academic contract. Bev retired in September 2015 after 38 years at Murdoch.

CONGRATULATIONS!Professor Associate Professor Bev Thiele

2015 Senate Medal


I have always believed that if one thinks something should be fixed, or done better, or be brought into being, then one has an obligation and a responsibility to try and bring it about. There is no point thinking someone else should do it. I also learned early on in my time at Murdoch, that the best things about universities - their commitment to reason, and their collegial self-governance structures, means that if you think something is worth doing, and you can argue the case for it, it’s likely to get done.


Everyone really! I have learned from those who are like me and those who are not. Those pulling in the same direction and those who weren’t. I have been blessed with many, close, women colleagues (they know who they are), and the women studies students of Murdoch have been constant joys. My partner, John Bailey, apart from providing a model for diplomacy and integrity, also gave me insights into the “other side” of campus, which helped me develop and hold onto a university-wide vision.


We would all agree that life at uni has been getting tougher and harder. I think if I had not joined Murdoch when I did, I would not have been able to achieve the things I did, or to be the “good campus citizen” I was. Life and career is so much tougher for young and aspiring academics now. I would like to see Murdoch, and the university sector more generally find ways to nurture the fledgling careers of younger academics, to give them security and the leisure to think good ideas.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Natalie Warburton

2015 VICE CHANCELLOR’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND TEACHING

Dr Natalie Warburton (second right)Senior Lecturer - Anatomy

School of Veterinary & Life Sciences


I joined Murdoch University as a lecturer in 2007 and my teaching activities encompass the curriculum areas of Veterinary Science, Animal Science, Biomedical Science and Forensic Science and, previously the Chiropractic program. I find interest and joy from my curiosity about the natural world and how animals work, and I use this enthusiasm to engage and motivate the students with whom I interact. I get to work with many first year students and strive to help them make a successful transition to tertiary education.

CONGRATULATIONS!Dr Natalie Warburton

2015 Vice Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Learning and Teaching


I love what I do, and have a natural tendency to want to share my love of learning with others, particularly with students who may find learning challenging. I strongly believe in the importance of a humanistic approach to teaching and the role of the educator in encouraging and supporting student learning.


I really value being able to give my students engaging and practical learning activities, and to see them face-to-face on a regular basis. This is only possible with modest class sizes and support for student-centred learning design. I think that this is a real strength of Murdoch, in comparison to other universities where there has been a strong push towards very large class sizes and curriculum design that reduces the capacity for students to engage in stimulating, collaborative learning activities. I hope very much that we continue to value and support the student experience at Murdoch.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Martin Hopkins & Prue Andrus

2015 VICE CHANCELLOR’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND TEACHING (team teaching)

Prue Andrus and Martin HopkinsLecturers

School of Health Professions


Martin joined Murdoch in 2010 and completed my PhD through Murdoch in 2015. Prue joined Murdoch in 2006.

Our team contributes to the university through developing the skills and confidence of student nurses, who undertake workplace learning at local and international healthcare facilities. Our students are influential ambassadors for our university, and when our students apply their learning’s from the class room to the workplace they make an impact in the patient’s journey that is observed and noticed by Registered Nurses and other health care professionals. By preparing students to respond to the clinical deterioration of a patient we improve their skills and confidence and make them ready for real life in healthcare facilities.

CONGRATULATIONS!Martin Hopkins and Prue Andrus

2015 Vice Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (team teaching)


As registered nurses we thrive on seeing students develop their clinical knowledge base, clinical skills and love for nursing. It is always inspiring for us to see nursing students develop in all aspects of their education from learning essential nursing skills in first year such as blood pressure recording to caring for acutely unwell complex patients in third year. Hearing student’s link theory to practice and applying their skills in clinical practice keeps us motivated to help them learn.


We would like to acknowledge collaborations with St John of God Murdoch Healthcare (SJGMH) in the development of simulated learning environments. We have been able to apply learning’s from a joint project with SJGMH in our unit delivery. The collaboration with SJGMH was made available through funding from the Australian Government.


We would like to see the continued growth of the nursing program across the 2 campuses allowing us to continue to produce professional, highly skilled registered nurses that will directly influence care in the local community.

We would like continue our research into simulated learning environments within the nursing program. In particular we would like to develop more clinical units of embedded weekly simulations and evaluate student experiences and outcomes.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Antonia Girardi and Stephen Turner

2015 VICE CHANCELLOR’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND TEACHING (team teaching)

Associate Professor Antonia Girardi and Mr Stephen TurnerSchool of Management & Governance


Having been colleagues for almost six years, we began teaching as a team in 2012 when Stephen joined the School of Management and Governance as a sessional staff member. Antonia has been with Murdoch for 17 years this coming July. Through our varied academic and professional backgrounds, we have a number of complementary skills and approaches that enable us to address the challenges students face through their learning journey at Murdoch University.

CONGRATULATIONS!Associate Professor Antonia Girardi and Mr Stephen Turner

2015 Vice Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (team teaching)


We embrace the teaching of human resource management (HRM) based on one guiding principle -- people management is everybody’s business.

We believe our people-centred, ethical and moral approach to human resource management has changed the minds and lives of our students, and their prospective employers.

It has been rewarding to see our graduating students embark on careers in the profession including a few students who are all working in the People and Culture Office at Murdoch.


We want to acknowledge our families who support the long work hours; our colleagues for their continued encouragement; and of course our students who challenge us on a daily basis.

We especially would like to thank members of the school HR curriculum advisory board for their insights in facilitating a meaningful student experience. We also acknowledge those involved in the learning and teaching events in the University, such as the Conversation series, for the opportunity to engage with lots of talented staff and exchange ideas about contemporary education.


We would like to see the continued development and support of learning spaces which are devoid of affective and cognitive judgments, but are safe psychological spaces so students can explore the unknown, and experiment with new ways of being and acting.

By doing so the core priorities of Murdoch for high quality teaching and learning through enacting the values of scholarly integrity, equity and social justice will continue to be realised.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Steve Johnstone

2016 VICE CHANCELLOR’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Mr Steve JohnstoneIT Change Process Analyst


I first joined the Murdoch community in 2009 when I started as a Year 12 work experience student from Lumen Christi College. This wonderful opportunity led to casual employment working at our IT Counter. Straight after school I would travel to Murdoch and work the evening shift from 4pm to 12am then go to school the next day. Currently, I’m involved primarily with the deployment and setup of our Macintosh computers. However, my other responsibilities include system administration and support to staff based in South Street, Mandurah, Bunbury and offshore.

CONGRATULATIONS!Steve Johnstone

2016 Vice Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Services


The challenges and job satisfaction my role provides is what I enjoy most about working at Murdoch. Also, the university’s lively community. Bush Court is always great when thriving with students and staff during various events including market day or Orientation Week.


During my 6 years at Murdoch I have had the opportunity to work with remarkable people. I’d especially like to acknowledge the IT Change Management Team for their continued hard work and the Information Technology Services Office as a whole. Also, a special mention to John Dakin who first employed me back in 2009. His support during that time allowed me to work on many different tasks and projects which I found both challenging and exciting.


I would like to see more technology applied to the Research, Learning & Teaching spaces to further bring the University into the digital age. This would ultimately provide the best support to our students and staff utilising current and future technologies available. It would be wonderful see more recognition within the academic and professional staff who work tirelessly in their chosen fields the further advance the University’s reputation for excellence.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Caroline Browne

2016 VICE CHANCELLOR’S CITATIONS FOR EXCELLENCE IN ENHANCING LEARNING

Ms Caroline BrowneLecturer

School of Health Professions


I first joined Murdoch University in 2011 as a nursing lecturer and have been able an active participant in developing the Bachelor of Nursing program, which has grown in student numbers rapidly over this time. I have held a number of different roles within the school including unit coordinator, undergraduate academic chair, and now, international placement coordinator through which I have been able to develop an understanding of how Murdoch university functions and provide a better learning experience for our nursing students.

CONGRATULATIONS!Caroline Browne

2016 Vice Chancellor's Citations for Excellence in Enhancing Learning


I have been lucky enough to be involved with the international placements for a number of years and Murdoch and enjoy seeing the nursing students thrive in challenging international environments. The students are able to learn so much about leadership, teamwork and professionalism through working with the local nursing staff to run community health clinics in rural villages. They not only practice their nursing skills but also develop stronger cross cultural communication skills. Getting to see each group of students experience these health clinics for the first time is a highlight of each trip but the real enjoyment comes from seeing them put these skills into practice when they get back to Australia.


These placements would not be as successful without support from the entire school. Multiple lecturers and tutors are required to help facilitate the students on different placements. Although it is usually not difficult to find volunteers willing to travel overseas it does take courage to take a group of nursing students into an unfamiliar environment, where you have very little control over what is about to happen, so I am very grateful for all the lecturers and tutors who have been willing to take a leap into the unknown to support our students. It is also so important to have support from our Dean and Head of Discipline, to keep these programs running and see the benefit that these types of experiences can offer our students.


I think we already do a great job at Murdoch University in encouraging our students to explore all the opportunities that are available to them, including studying and travelling overseas as part of their experience at Murdoch. I hope that we are able to continue to develop relationships and opportunities in our region that allow our students to explore their role in the global community and bring this experience and knowledge back to Perth.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Nathan Tozer


Mr Nathan TozerTNE Liaison Support Officer

School of Arts


I started at Murdoch in 2002 as an undergraduate Arts and Law student and then moved onto Honours in Communication in 2009 and a PhD in 2010. My (then) PhD supervisor first gave me the opportunity to do all of the lecturing and tutoring for the unit MCC315 New Media Technologies for the School of Arts in 2010 which I did every year until the last time it ran in 2015. I have also lectured/tutored and coordinated for a couple of other units in the last few years and been a member of EPSC/The TNE Liaison team since 2012.

I believe my teaching experience has assisted me in my TNE role as I have been able to offer unique insights into TNE as both a teacher and administrator.

CONGRATULATIONS!Nathan Tozer



The most satisfying things about teaching are helping students achieve their potential (particularly those with low self-confidence) and inspiring students to think about real-world issues. I’ve enjoyed many class discussions/debates about ‘digital footprints’; privacy; and mandatory data retention schemes over the years and its encouraging when young people think about these issues and how they affect society. It’s also great when former students contact me to let me know about their first jobs out of University and how they have put the theories and skills from the units I’ve taught into action.


I would like to thank my Manager Mrs Jenny Sceats and colleague in the TNE Liaison team Mrs Yukiko Stransky as well as the TNE Deans: Associate Professor Peter Waring and Dr Max Sully and Director of External Engagement Phil Payne for their continued support and flexibility in allowing me to teach in addition to my full-time role in transnational education. I would also like to thank my PhD supervisors Associate Professors Ingrid Richardson and Terence Lee for their ongoing support and guidance. I also couldn’t have done it without the initial opportunity first given to me by Dr Kirsty Best and my first Manager in EPSC Mr Malcolm Hollier who have since left the University.


I think the landmark appointment of Murdoch’s first female Vice Chancellor has inspired a lot of optimism within the institution and the Transforming TNE @ Murdoch Project will hopefully see some exciting innovations in blended learning which will mean that we continue to be acknowledged as a world-class institution for both teaching and learning as well as research and one of the top Universities under 100.

CONGRATULATIONS!

The On-Track Team


The On-Track TeamDr Joanne Lisciandro, Dr Angela Jones, Ms Gael Gibbs, Dr Megan Jaceglav


Joanne and Gael both joined the Murdoch community in 2003 as undergraduate students, and later went on to work at Murdoch, both eventually taking up leadership roles in the OnTrack program. In 2004 Angela started her academic career tutoring in her discipline of Cultural Studies and Media Studies, as well as a scholar in teaching and learning. In 2010 she secured a lecturing position in the CUTL, where she has been working since including in the OnTrack and OnTrack Sprint program. Megan joined the Murdoch community in 2000, at this time as a post-graduate student, and later being involved in teaching and research. After teaching across the university in different roles, she joined OnTrack in 2013, and commenced in an OnTrack leadership role in 2015.

Together, our team ensures the operation and running of the OnTrack program which has provided more than 3000 students, many from educational disadvantaged backgrounds, the opportunity to access and achieve success at university.

CONGRATULATIONS!The On-Track Team



We enjoy the transformative role such learning has on the students, both at an academic and personal level. Students and past students often tell us how OnTrack has significantly changed the direction of their lives for the better. Many students leave OnTrack with a newfound confidence and go on to succeed in their university studies. Hearing about their stories and how OnTrack has transformed their lives is what inspires us to continue to do the work we do. It is an honour to help to initiate and share in this.


We would like to acknowledge all of the people who contribute to the success of OnTrack, in particular our Access Programs Officer (Sharon Reynolds) and lead tutors and tutors who have worked in the program over many years and do an amazing job at inspiring and motivating our students to achieve success. We would also like to thank other members of the Murdoch community who contribute to the success of our students including those in CUTL, the Academic Registrar’s Office, Equity, Counselling and Library services, the Careers and Employment Centre, Future Students, Enrolments, Admissions and many others (you know who you are!)


We would like to see the Murdoch Community continue to strengthen its commitment to embracing and servicing diversity in the student population and to continue to offer courses and support services that give talented individuals a pathway to university, where opportunity otherwise wouldn’t exist. We would also like to see a commitment to high quality teaching and learning across the university, including through provision of opportunities for staff development and by encouraging, valuing and rewarding staff who are reflective practitioners of teaching and learning.

CONGRATULATIONS!

The Sprint Team


The Sprint TeamDr Angela Jones and Mrs Anita Olds


Dr. Angela Jones joined the Murdoch team as an infant attending the day care where she wowed staff with her sense of curiosity. It was always obvious she was a natural academic. She went on to study hard-core at Murdoch obtaining a PHD in Cultural studies. Originally aspiring to be Australia’s answer to Dr. Phil. Anita Olds joined the Murdoch Community when she commenced her Masters in Counselling in 2012. Realising she was at heart a teacher and that the world needed her teaching skills, she paused her studies to join the OnTrack Team in 2013. Together they are The Sprint dynamic duo, passionate pedagogues who bring to Murdoch something vaguely akin to watching Robin Williams in the Dead Poets Society, but add killer fashion and popular cultural references.

CONGRATULATIONS!The Sprint Team



The Jones and Olds learning journey from beginning to end is a joyous ride. We send out initiations to learning that our students enthusiastically accept (thank you students). We delightfully scheme ways to armour up our students with the appropriate academic artillery such as critical thinking skills, essay writing skills, and acculturation skills. Then we sit back to marvel at our learning communities as they successfully navigate the difficult terrane of the tertiary world.


Gael Gibbs set up the conditions for such a successful program to thrive. She targeted the demographic, and conceived the early structure of the program. She then handed it over to the suitably qualified but crazy Angela and Anita to do their “thang”. She is very relieved it worked I bet!


We would like to see the University community embracing the enabling pedagogies we have modelled throughout Sprint across all subjects areas… Pedagogically it is important to realise that it is not beneath an academic to use language to bend down to a learner and to meet them in their popular culture space. For example, phrases like “there is layers to this player” make great tools for teaching critical analysis. Whilst in this popular culture learner space we can make connections and build safety, and as a result the learner is a lot more likely to follow us enthusiastically into the more abstract, academic culture.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Associate Professor Tanya McGill

AUSTRALIAN AWARDS FOR UNIVERSITY TEACHING2015 CITATION FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS

TO STUDENT LEARNING

And

2015 DEANS AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING

Associate Professor Tanya McGillSchool of Engineering and Information Technology


I first joined Murdoch University in 1990. I have taught a wide range of units at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The main units that I currently teach relate to either developing information systems or to conducting research. I also supervise research students and have undertaken a wide range of administrative roles at both School and University levels.

CONGRATULATIONS!Associate Professor Tanya McGill

Australian Awards for University Teaching2015 Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning


After 25 years teaching, I still really enjoy helping students to learn. My teaching style as learner-centred. I aim to be a facilitator or guide assisting students in their learning, rather than the source of all knowledge. I find this style of teaching very rewarding. I am constantly learning new things, and find the interaction with my students very satisfying. I particularly enjoy meeting up with past students who are now making great contributions to the ICT industry.


The Information Technology academics from the School of Engineering and Information Technology have developed a strong set of related majors that allow students to gain the core knowledge and skills needed to obtain a wide range of jobs, but also to specialise in their areas of interest. I value being part of that team.


I would like to see learning and teaching emphasised and valued more.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Mohammednoor Altarawneh

2016 VICE CHANCELLOR'S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH

And

2015 A.J. PARKER AWARDFor Outstanding Early Career Researcher

Senior Lecturer in Chemical EngineeringSchool of Engineering and Information Technology


Over the last few years, Murdoch has been reshaping itself as a research intensive university with promising opportunities. I joined Murdoch almost two years ago, as I wanted to be part of the evolving research environment at Murdoch University. Since joining, I have been very active in all research-based aspects, including applying to external grants, supervision of PhD students and publishing high quality papers. I am a computational chemist by trade, thus, I have been promoting the use of high performance computing facilities across the University as a an inexpensive and very effective research tool; not only in chemistry but in many fields across the University including health and life science.

CONGRATULATIONS!Dr Mohammednoor Altarawneh

2016 Vice Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Research


It is almost impossible to see things that happen at the nano scale. In my research, I am very interested to explain chemical phenomena that we are not able to see in the lab. I am very enthusiastic to get a deeper understanding for some of the most intriguing historically unresolved problems relating to environmental pollution and fire safety. I enjoyed being able to have a closer look into molecules and atoms. The increasing computational power provided by supercomputers and the emergence of highly accurate theoretical procedures, make contemporary computational chemistry one of the most detailed 'microscopes' currently available for examining the atomic and electronic details of molecular processes.


I am very fortunate to have a group of very good people around me in the School of Engineering and IT, some new to Murdoch, some being here for a long time. The intellectual climate in the School is as a good as in any top-notch international research universities. I am very thankful to all members in the Fire Safety and the Combustion Kinetics Research Group. Their highly productive team has made combustion and environmental chemistry one of the most productive research areas in SEIT, recognised nationally and internationally.


I would like to see Murdoch continuities its rapid transition into a research intensive University. I am very confident that over the next five years, Murdoch will be home to world’s experts in combustion, environmental chemistry and Material design.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Ann-Maree Vallence


Dr Ann-Maree VallenceSenior Lecturer in Chemical Engineering



I joined the Murdoch community in January 2015. My current role is a National Health and Medical Research (NHMRC) Early Career Research Fellow in the School of Psychology and Exercise Science. This role is important to the realisation of Murdoch University’s strategic ambition as a global research university. Specifically, the health and medical research program that I am able to complete in this role addresses one of the University’s core research goals, Health Futures.

CONGRATULATIONS!Dr Ann-Maree Vallence



I get to ask questions about how the human brain works, and test those questions…it’s fascinating! My research program has two streams: one stream is fundamental science, aiming to understand processes in the brain the underlie our behaviour; the other stream is clinical, aiming to take what we know about the healthy brain and apply it to the damaged or aging brain in order to improve behaviour or prevent declines in behaviour.


Yes! I would like to thank Mike Anderson (Dean, School of Psychology and Exercise Science) and Jeff Hebert (Associate Dean Research, School of Psychology and Exercise Science) for helping me set up the lab and my research program so that I could hit the ground running when I arrived. I’d also like to thank Jane Crier for the excellent support during the grant application process, and for promoting the importance of (and supporting) research collaborations for ECRs.


I would like to see more collaboration across disciplines within the University, strong local collaborations with the Fiona Stanley Hospital, strong international research collaborations, and successful PhD graduates –all of which will lead to important research outputs for health and medical research.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Associate Professor Graham Gardner


And

2015 VETERINARY & LIFE SCIENCES AWARD

Associate Professor - Biochemistry, Toxicology & NutritionSchool of Veterinary & Life Sciences


Defected to Murdoch University in 2005, after spending the previous 5 years as an academic at The University of New England, NSW. Teaching is focused on Biochemistry, Nutrition and Toxicology, and for the last 5 years I’ve been the academic chair for Animal Science, and then the new Animal Science and Animal Health majors.

Research is predominantly funded by the Sheep CRC and Meat and Livestock Australia, and my work in this area has helped to maintain a constant funding stream for other academic and general stuff in my area, as well as driving the activities of a large team of postgraduate students.

CONGRATULATIONS!Associate Professor Graham Gardner



There are a number of things I really enjoy:

1. Intellectual challenge, and the chance to explore new ideas/research areas of my own choosing

2. Engaging, educating, and creating value for industry through the various research projects undertaken.

3. Being part of a national research team focused on industry problems

4. Being part of a local team of academics, post-graduates, and post-doctoral fellows, all motivated about their work.


This award is for delivering a DEXA system to industry which I’ve developed in close collaboration with Andrew Williams, a research officer in my team, as well as the engineers at Scott Automation and Robotics.

It is also very supportive and motivating to be a part of a larger team working in the area of production animal science. This team includes David Pethick, John Pluske, Peter McGilchrist, David Miller, Andrew Thompson, Caroline Jacobson, Una Ryan, Fiona Anderson, and Khama Kelman, as well as numerous general staff, postgraduates and postdoctoral fellows who all help to make the atmosphere vibrant and motivating.


There are demonstrated areas of research strength within the University. These groups need investment to grow and operate in part like small-business units. Investment of R&D funds back into these groups would enhance this potential. Furthermore, linking this investment to income performance would act as a powerfully motivating factor.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Professor Una Ryan


Professor Una RyanProfessor in Biochemistry



I first came to Murdoch in 1989 after completing my honours degree in Zoology in University College Dublin. I worked for a couple of years as a research assistant in Parasitology and then started my PhD in 1992 under the supervision of Prof. Andy Thompson and completed in 1996. Since my PhD, I have worked as a PostDoc and then as a tenured member of academic staff. At this stage my role in research is about creating and implementing new strategies for the detection, characterisation and treatment of infectious pathogens.

CONGRATULATIONS!Professor Una Ryan



My area of research is parasites and other infectious agents and I find micro-organisms in general fascinating. It’s like a parallel universe under the microscope. Understanding the mechanisms they have developed to overcome the mammalian host’s attempts to prevent their growth is incredibly interesting and humbling. They have come up with so many strategies to thwart us - Evolution is an amazing thing!


My achievements are very much the result of a group effort. Prof. Andy Thompson was a great PhD supervisor and really helped to launch my career and I am very grateful for all his assistance. My collaborators are Prof. Peter Irwin, Dr. Charlotte Oskam and Dr. Andrea Paparini and all the PhD students in the Vector and Water-Borne Pathogen group or Cryptick lab. I am indebted to all their hard work and support over the years. I would also like to acknowledge the contribution of Dr. Rongchang Yang who was a member of our group until recently.


We are facing difficult times in academia with decreased research funding and increasing workload but I am always hearted by the quote that “The important thing in science is not so much to obtain new facts as to discover new ways of thinking about them” so I would like to see Murdoch continue to develop its culture of innovation.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Manickam Minakshi


Dr Manickam MinakshiSenior Lecturer



I came to Murdoch in 2003 and have obtained PhD in the field of chemical sciences at Murdoch University, 9 years ago in January 2007. After graduation, I was on a research only position until 2012 and then involved in both teaching and research (50:50). From 2015 onwards, I am committed to both teaching (40%) and research (40%) in addition to administration (20%). Currently, I am a senior lecturer in School of Engineering and IT, teaching at the post graduate level in the energy discipline and pursuing research in energy storage which is of great national and international significance in storing renewable energy.

CONGRATULATIONS!Dr Manickam Minakshi



As we all know, the major barrier to wide ranging application of renewable energy sources is intermittent supply; generation of power by solar and wind sources, for example, can be hampered by time of day, dust, cloud and other weather conditions. This barrier can be most effectively overcome by large-scale energy storage systems suitable for a broad range of applications. I have a strong commitment in developing new materials for low cost energy storage systems but unsure if I have achieved one so far! Overall, I enjoy doing innovative research, in seeking high quality outcomes and attracting competitive grants.


Doing research is actually a collaboration and team work. Though I have a passion in research and generated some original ideas but I have to also acknowledge my team members (all post-docs and internships who worked under me) including Dr. Danielle Meyrick and collaborators from ANSTO and Uppsala University that led to several high quality journal publications. I would also like to thank Murdoch University and ARC (DP1092543) for their support in funding this project without which we would not have achieved to this level.


To make universities competitive, we have to commit ourselves to provide a high quality teaching and research. We need to strive and keep the star rating at Murdoch this will enable us to attract more students and research funding. To achieve this, I will continue to demonstrate an innovative research, fostering the relationship with the collaborating institutions in both domestic and overseas. Overall, I would like to develop a highly efficient, safe energy technology for the future and to have a sustainable power.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Erin MacNeil

2015 SCHOOL OF ARTS EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR


My decision to join Murdoch came from a driving value and belief in the transformative effect that education has on people’s lives. I wanted to get my foot in the door of an organisation that would not only allow me to help engage people with education and learning, but would also provide opportunities to facilitate meaningful experiences for students in a community that fosters ideals of collaboration, creativity, inclusiveness, and support. Luckily for me, Murdoch has been a place where I get to work alongside people who live and breathe this philosophy, and who have helped spark my ideas into reality. One of the best parts of my role is having the opportunity to listen to the wealth of knowledge that colleagues and students in my School possess, and being able to feed that back into initiatives that I undertake to improve recruitment and retention within the School of Arts.

CONGRATULATIONS!Erin MacNeil

2015 School of Arts Employee of the Year


I believe education is one of the most valuable things anyone can gift themselves with, but it is also not an easy journey for many different reasons. I think having the time to sit down with students and staff, listen to their stories, and use their narratives as a tool to reduce obstacles, develop our products, and shape practice delivery is extremely rewarding. So really it is the reciprocal relationship of learning from those I am trying to assist that I enjoy most.


I would like to thank my School Manager, Louise Somerset for taking the time to understand me as a person and recognise my strengths as an employee. She was very quickly able to create opportunities for me to grow within my role and move in a direction that aligned with my professional goals. I also could not adore all the academic and professional staff within the School of Arts any more than I do now. I have never met a team of people so passionate, dedicated and good at what they do; they inspire me every day.


I would really like to see an evolution in the way that schools and central departments work together. I would love to see more opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, problem solving, and knowledge development at all levels of the university. We are so incredibly lucky to be working with such a diverse range of people and expertise, and my hope is that we will increasingly be able to recognise and harness these different strengths in order to develop unique learning experiences, inclusive community building opportunities, and superior services for our students and the greater Murdoch community.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Dan Churach

2015 DEAN’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING (UNIT EXCELLENCE SEMESTER 1 AND 2)

Dr Dan ChurachAdjunct Lecturer



I joined Murdoch in 2001 as Education Manager for the AJ Parker Centre CRC (Cooperative Research Centre). In 2004 I became Education Manager of the Centre for Sustainable Resource Processing, another CRC with which Murdoch University was a partner. Professor Mike Nicol recognised a need in many first year metallurgy students for greater depth and understanding of fundamental STEM subjects and asked me to develop a portion of that first year unit to enhance these skills. Over time as the CRCs both reached an end of funding, my roll at working with first year students increased.

Additionally, from 2003 I used CRC support to help design, organise and deliver “Introduction to Extractive Metallurgy” workshops to high school teachers. We involved over 1,000 secondary teachers throughout WA, but also in Queensland and Victoria. There were many Murdoch people who made this possible, in particular, Ken Seymour, Graeme Thompson, Jim Avraamides and Stewart Kelly. In 2008 Murdoch and CSRP won a national CRC award for this work.

CONGRATULATIONS!Dr Dan Churach

2015 Dean's Award for Excellence in Teaching (Unit Excellence)School of Engineering and Information Technology


I enjoy seeing the sparkle in a student’s eyes when they have a “eureka moment” of discovery in the midst of a discussion concerning some aspect of natural sciences. No matter what the unit content may be, the realisation that the natural world is never easily separated into neat, self-contained packages. My greatest teaching reward has been seeing a student coming to the realisation that so-called ‘answers’ require an understanding of the interrelationships within the universe in its entirety. Of course this means students must commit themselves to a lifelong course of learning.


The interrelationships of our ‘metallurgy team’ must be taken as a whole. The ‘old timers’ including Prof Mike Nicol, Prof Gamini Senanayake, Dr Aleks Nikoloski, Ken Seymour, Graeme Thompson, Dr Jim Avraamides, Prof Parisa Bahri, Prof Bodzio Dlugogorski, Prof Peter May and Stewart Kelly. There are new additions who have become involved (Drew Parsons) and former employees who have moved on (Dr Nick Welham and Sue Farr), but the point is that only through team work can we be successful.


Continue to mentor first year students in an attempt to develop their natural curiosity with the universe. Nurturing this curiosity will not only contribute to successful graduates, but will also encourage the realisation that learning is lifelong pursuit, not just something ‘completed’ as a young person in order to ‘earn a credential and get a good job’. I also would like to see Murdoch continue and expand its outreach to school teachers. Every ‘friend of Murdoch’ teacher we can make will follow on to e 150 or more students every year thereafter.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Amy Glen

2015 DEAN’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING (SEMESTER 1)

Dr Amy GlenLecturer



I joined Murdoch University in mid 2009 as a Lecturer in Mathematics & Statistics. I am mostly involved teaching the first-year mathematics units MAS161 (Calculus & Matrix Algebra) and MAS162 (Foundations of Discrete Mathematics), and I have occasionally offered an Honours unit in Combinatorics – my main research area –which falls within the broad field of Discrete Mathematics. Much of my research to date has concerned properties of finite and infinite sequences of symbols (called “words”). I study these mathematical structures purely for the beauty of the mathematics involved, but such work also has important applications in a range of other fields. For example, sequences of binary digits (i.e., strings of 0s and 1s, such as a random-looking sequence like 0110100010010...) underpin the digital computer age and are fundamental to certain aspects of computer science, such as digital imagery, pattern recognition, and data compression. And in molecular biology, for instance, DNA structures can be viewed as very long words over an alphabet of four letters. These are just two areas in which advances in research can be made from a better theoretical understanding of the structural and behavioural properties of finite and infinite sequences.

Teaching is a strong passion of mine. For one, it allows me to share my excitement for mathematics with students; to open their eyes to the wonder and beauty that is Mathematics. I also take great delight in building up a rapport with students. Seeing them mature in mathematical ability makes the teaching experience all the more rewarding and enjoyable too.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Emeritus Professor Philip Jennings

2015 IAN M. RITCHIE AWARDFor Life Long Research Achievement

Emertitus Professor Philip JenningsSchool of Engineering and Information Technology


I started work at Murdoch University on 4 January 1975 as a senior lecturer in physics. Over the years I have held many different positions and roles at Murdoch, including periods as Director of the Murdoch University Energy Research Institute (1987 – 1993), Head of the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences (1997 – 2001) and Chief Executive officer of the Australian Cooperative Research Centre for Renewable Energy (2003 -2004). My main contributions were to the establishment of the physics, computer science and energy studies courses and my leadership in surface physics and renewable energy research.

CONGRATULATIONS!Emeritus Professor Philip Jennings

Ian M. Ritchie Award for Life Long Research AchievementSchool of Engineering and Information Technology


I have greatly enjoyed the collegiality and opportunities for interdisciplinary research at Murdoch University. This has enabled me to work in strategic areas as well as undertake basic research within my discipline. I have collaborated with colleagues from several other disciplines in work that I have done on renewable energy, science education and environmental issues.


I have had the pleasure of working closely with several Murdoch colleagues including John Cornish, Steve Thurgate, Glenn Hefter, Chris Lund and Tania Urmee. I have also had many talented PhD students who have done brilliant work in a variety of fields. Throughout my career I have also collaborated with colleagues at Curtin University and at several interstate and overseas institutions.


Murdoch has been a national leader in innovative research, particularly in identifying and researching strategic areas such as environmental science, renewable energy and climate change. I hope that the new generation of researchers will build on the work of the original Murdoch staff and continue to collaborate across the disciplines to tackle new problems in the contemporary world. I believe that Murdoch’s culture of interdisciplinary and collegiality is an advantage for researchers wishing to address strategic national research priorities.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Zhong-Tao Jiang

2015 SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AWARD FOR INTRA-

SCHOOL RESEARCH COLLABORATION

Dr Zhong-Tao JiangSchool of Engineering and Information Technology

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Nicola Armstrong

2015 I.R. JAMES AWARD for External Research Collaboration

Dr Nicola ArmstrongSchool of Engineering and Information Technology


I first joined the Murdoch community as an undergraduate student many years ago, and after a long absence, I started as a Senior Lecturer in Mathematics and Statistics in April 2015. I am involved in teaching second year statistics, including both the core theoretical content for mathematics and statistics majors, and applied biostatistics.

CONGRATULATIONS!Dr Nicola Armstrong

2015 I.R. James Award for External Research Collaboration


My core research area is statistical bioinformatics, applying and developing statistical methods to analyse genetic and genomic data. I work closely with biologists and clinicians in order to try to understand the development of complex disease such as cancer and dementia and to develop new methods for early detection, prediction and prognosis. I really enjoy the collaborative aspect of my work, and the immediate applications to such important areas of medical research.


I’d like to acknowledge everyone in Mathematics and Statistics for their support but especially my undergraduate lecturers for helping to nurture my love of numbers all those years ago – Mark Lukas, my honours supervisor Brenton Clarke and Ian James, who encouraged me to go overseas for my PhD, a decision which has proven pivotal to my career.


I’d really like to see Murdoch improve its reputation as a research university. I would especially like to see the development of the Eastern Precinct and stronger, mutually beneficial, relationships with FSH. Whatever changes that may be ahead, I would also like us to remain an open and friendly university, with a low-level of hierarchy – its one thing I really enjoyed and appreciated as an undergraduate, and one that I am very happy to see still in place now I am an academic here.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Ken Seymour

2015 SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONAL STAFF

SERVICE AWARD

Ken SeymourTechnical Manager



I joined Murdoch University in February 1986 as a Laboratory Technician in the Mineral Science program within the School of Maths and Physical Sciences. Studying a BSc part time at Murdoch I progressed to Senior Technician, then Professional Officer, then to my current position as Technical Manager.

By participating in outreach programs to high school students and teachers we have created interest in science based careers and promoted Murdoch to the wider community. Our current ‘Be a Metallurgist for a Day’ project is funded by a grant from Rio Tinto which was instigated five years ago by the Technical Staff.

I have also helped to establish the Safety in Research and Teaching Committee and serve on two of its sub committees.

CONGRATULATIONS!Ken Seymour

2015 School of Engineering and Information Technology Professional Staff Service Award


I enjoy working with a people from an interesting range of countries, cultures and backgrounds to help them achieve their educational aims in life. Part of this involves maintaining a safe and secure work and study environment.

Working with high school students and teachers is especially rewarding, particularly with the warm welcome we have received from all the schools in the South West, Great Southern, Pilbara and Kimberly regions of WA.


Dan Churach, Graeme Thompson, Stewart Kelly from the BAMFAD team, Rebecca Treloar-Cook and all the SEIT Admin Staff, plus all the staff who help us run the on campus sessions, and the School Dean, Prof Bogdan Dlugogorski for his support.


Much wider recognition of Murdoch University in the community for its unique and innovative teaching and research, particularly within SEIT. More community outreach programs involving schools and TAFE colleges.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Graeme Thompson


SERVICE AWARD

Graeme ThompsonRio Tinto Outreach Assistant



I started at Murdoch University in 2007 as a mature age PhD student (still endeavouring to complete). I began doing some tutoring and Laboratory demonstrating in Chemistry and running of workshops in Primary Science Education. Being a former teacher, when there were teacher and technician PDs, or visits on campus by high school students run by the Extractive Metal group, I was asked to assist.

In 2011, a group of technicians at Murdoch University decided to formalise an outreach program which would enable schools to visit Murdoch and experience “Being a Metallurgist for a Day” or a team from Murdoch would visit and expound, in a classroom setting, the virtues of metallurgy. Thus BAMFAD was born. Finance to support the venture was sought and gained from Rio Tinto, with in-kind support from Murdoch University. In 2012, whilst in its infancy, I was asked to take over the co-ordination of the program, which included day long incursions and visits to country schools in the North-west and South –west. Funding ceases at the end of 2016.

CONGRATULATIONS!Graeme Thompson



I enjoy challenging students to think for themselves, to analyse and eventually gain success. I want them to be able to explain why something has happened, and to see how work in the laboratory relates to what goes on in industry. I want them to understand that there are many facets to the mining and minerals industry and how this industry is important to us.

It is great to see them have success in working through a question and end up with a good explanation. Any knowledge that I can impart to a student means that both of us are successful.


My thanks goes to:

The Technical staff who initiated the BAMFAD program and those technical people who work feverishly behind the scenes getting things organised and assisting with presentations (especially Ken Seymour and Stewart Kelly). Dan Churach, and his colleague Jim Avraamides, who have presented the talks to student. Rebecca Treloar-Cook and the very busy office staff in SEIT who, without complaint, pick up the pieces and do much of the ‘behind the scenes’ work in the preparation for the program. In addition I thank the numerous members of the Mathematics and Chemistry staff in SEIT and post graduate students who help in the running of the incursion program, without whom I would not have been considered for this award.

Finally, our Dean, Prof Bogdan Dlugogorski, and my line manager, A. Prof Gamini Senanayake, who have given valuable support and advice in the running of the program.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Stewart Kelly


SERVICE AWARD


I joined Murdoch University in February of 1996 originally as a casual laboratory assistant and was later promoted to full time laboratory technician. My role mainly involves preparing teaching laboratories for classes and demonstrating to students, but also includes a wide range of other tasks as needed by the department.

CONGRATULATIONS!Stewart Kelly



Knowing that they are learning skills that are genuinely useful and will find them employment. The mining industry is a great place to find a career. It’s particularly gratifying to see young school students take an interest in the metallurgy field through the Be a Metallurgist For a Day program.


Many people within the Extractive Metallurgy area have helped over the years in many ways, particularly Ken Seymour who has been my supervisor for most of that time and Graeme Thompson who has worked tirelessly every year overseeing every detail of the Be a Metallurgist For a Day program.


Hopefully the community as a whole will go from strength to strength, particularly the engineering and metallurgy related degree programs.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Allan Johnstone

2015 SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND GOVERNANCE TEACHING EXCELLENCE AWARD

Allan JohnstoneLecturer

School of Business and Governance

CONGRATULATIONS!

Jo-Anne Kestel


Jo-Anne KestelLecturer


CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Tara Smith


Dr Tara SmithLecturer



I first joined the Murdoch team in 2014, as a sessional academic staff member. In 2015 I was the unit coordinator and lecturer of two second year units, Employment Relations (S1) and Business Research Methods (S2). My role as a lecturer is to engage students in the learning process, and to help them develop their understanding of the subject. I do this in a variety of ways, in the classroom and online. I try to make learning relevant and engaging for students. I help students to learn, by providing examples of real world applications of theoretically abstract ideas. I use my own broad work experience. I share stories of how the theory they are learning is applied in organisations. This helps students to understand the importance of concepts and to begin to appreciate how theory works in the ‘real world’.

I view my role at Murdoch as one that encourages, motivates and promotes student learning. This role is broad it is not just about the units I coordinate and teach, but it is about life. It is about helping students to be better people. To think critically and to communicate with others in an informed way. In addition, I also work hard at helping colleagues with their teaching and learning. I have been leading the charge in the school demonstrating blended learning for the transnational programs.

CONGRATULATIONS!Dr Tara Smith

2015 School of Business and Governance Teaching Excellence Award


I love helping others learn. To hear from back from a student that what they learnt form me has changed the way they think, this makes me truly happy. I enjoy hearing from students who have finished their degree, hearing they have a job that they are happy. This is what I enjoy. On a more selfish note (don’t tell them!) I learn more from my students that they learn from me. I learn about; the subject (how students view the concept), me and the type of person I am, other countries, customs and places learning.

I truly believe that education has the power to change people’s lives, as it has my own. Teaching is a privilege I feel lucky, most days, that I get paid to do something I love.


In particular, I would like to acknowledge:

Associate Professor Antonia Girardi and Dr Megan Paull have both been a wonderful support for me in my transition to Murdoch.

My students who are gracious and appreciative of any help and support I provide.


I would like the Murdoch community to recognise its greatest strength which is that it is a university that genuinely cares about students. Students at Murdoch are not treated as a number. In a world of mass education, online education. Murdoch has retained the personal touch. We need to harness this strength, to differentiate ourselves from other education providers in the region. We can grow, we should grow but we need to grow by harnessing this strength not by being like other educational institutions.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Jacqui Baker

SIR WALTER MURDOCH SCHOOL OF PUBLIC POLICY & INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS TEACHING AWARD

Dr Jacqui BakerLecturer in Southeast Asian Politics

Sir Walter Murdoch School of Public Policy & international Affairs


I joined Murdoch in November 2015 as a Lecturer in Southeast Asian Politics. I contribute to this university’s long-standing expertise in Indonesian politics and research excellence in the political economy of political change. I am Murdoch’s representative on the national board of ACICIS. I also run the Indonesia Research Programme with my colleague Ian Wilson, which promotes Indonesia research and engagement across the University, and I sit on the University’s Indonesia Engagement Strategy Committee. Finally I am President of the Indonesia Council, which is an Australia-wide academic body for Indonesia-related research. As I see it, my job is not to teach about Indonesia and publish research but to encourage others within the university and across Australia to do so as well.

CONGRATULATIONS!Dr Jacqui Baker

Sir Walter Murdoch School of Public Policy & International Affairs Teaching Award


The most honest answer to this question would be a selfish one: I love teaching because it provides me with an opportunity to learn. There’s nothing like teaching to clarify your thinking, iron out all the inconsistences, get a grip on new literature and test out some new ideas on an unsuspecting student body.


The politics group are an extraordinarily supportive group of people. I want to thank Garry Rodan and Kanishka Jayasuriya for all the ways in which they have supported me in planning my career at these early stages. I thank in particular Jane Hutchison who listens, whose door is always open, who has advised on managing even the most miniscule of teaching problems and on whom I test all my dumb ideas.


I would like to see Murdoch lever convert its long-standing strengths in Indonesia into deeper and wider research and teaching engagements, including greater enrolments from Indonesia.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Jeffrey Wilson

SIR WALTER MURDOCH SCHOOL OF PUBLIC POLICY & INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS UNIT COORDINATOR

AWARD

Dr Jeffrey WilsonSenior Lecturer

Sir Walter Murdoch School of Public Policy & international Affairs


I joined Murdoch as a Fellow of the Asia Research Centre in 2012. My research speciality is in international political economy – a subfield of political science focussed on global economic governance. My current research investigates international resource politics in the Asia-Pacific – how governments and firms negotiate agreements for trade and investment between resource rich countries (such as Australia) and resource-poor countries (like China). I am also the Chief Investigator (with Mark Beeson, UWA) on an ARC Discovery Project on Australia-China economic relations (DP150100217). My administrative roles include Director of PhD Studies in the Asia Research Centre and Academic Chair of the Master of International Affairs degree in the Sir Walter Murdoch School.

CONGRATULATIONS!Dr Jeffrey Wilson

Sir Walter Murdoch School of Public Policy & International Affairs Unit Coordinator Award


Political science is about understanding how social groups make distributional decisions: the question of who gets what, how, on whose terms, and why. Politics – be it within a nation, a workplace, a community or the world – is something that almost everyone has some form of interest in. Teaching political science helps develop students’ ability to make sense of why certain groups are powerful, and how they can use this power to shape political outcomes in directions they favour. This knowledge is especially important to designing and implementing effective policy, within governments, business and international institutions.


I am privileged to be able to work in the Asia Research Centre here at Murdoch, which for over twenty years has been recognised as one of the region’s leading research institutes on social, political and economic issues in Asia. My colleagues are not only world-class scholars, but have created an exemplary collegial environment in which collaborative approaches to research and teaching are the norm. I am particularly indebted to senior mentors who have supported my development, especially Dr Jane Hutchison, Professor Garry Rodan and the Dean of the Sir Walter Murdoch School Professor Ben Reilly.


The Australian Universities sector is at a (somewhat unpleasant) cross-roads. Attracting students is becoming more competitive, government funding is declining in real terms, and resources will increasingly be concentrated in fewer programs and institutions. Success in this environment will depend on being able to demonstrate to policymakers, students and the wider public that both our research and teaching are world-class. Research success is a major component not only of institutional performance, but also – rightly or wrongly! – public perceptions of University quality.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Associate Professor Martin Cake

2015 SCHOOL OF VETERINARY AND LIFE SCIENCES LEARNING AND TEACHING AWARD – INNOVATION

Associate Professor Martin CakeVeterinary Anatomy



I have been at Murdoch pretty much forever, since starting as a student in 1990 I have only been away from Murdoch for 4 years! My first love is teaching veterinary anatomy, though I am equally passionate about veterinary professional life skills, wellbeing and resilience. My research has mainly been in biomedical science, though increasingly I find myself diverted into education research, where I feel I can make more of a difference.

CONGRATULATIONS!Associate Professor Martin Cake

2015 School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Learning and Teaching Award – Innovation


I believe the best teachers share their infectious enthusiasm and curiosity for the subject to inspire student learning. But higher education is about more than acquisition of knowledge, so I hope through my part in our Veterinary Professional Life course and camp that our students also leave us ready to enter successful and satisfying careers that will enrich their lives.


I am lucky to be surrounded by equally passionate, hard-working people who ensure that coming to work each day is never a chore. And thanks to our amazing students, for keeping me young (a task that is getting progressively harder!).


Murdoch has always been a small uni that has thought big, and embraced its differentness from older institutions. I hope we can continue to hold onto that, and retain our past focus on making a real difference to our students’ lives through their Murdoch experience. I remember my time as a Murdoch student as some of the best days of my life, and I really hope that students today are able to one day look back and feel the same.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Barbara Bowen

2015 SCHOOL OF VETERINARY AND LIFE SCIENCES LEARNING AND TEACHING AWARD – BEST

TEACHING SURVEY

Dr Barbara BowenSenior Lecturer



I joined Murdoch University in 1994. My role is in undergraduate guidance and support as Academic Chair of Conservation and Wildlife Biology and Biological Sciences; and as coordinator and lecturer in a range of core units within these disciplines. These roles are important at Murdoch University, providing individual students with the best advice, support and learning experiences to enable them to achieve their educational goals.

CONGRATULATIONS!Dr Barbara Bowen

2015 School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Learning and Teaching Award – Best Teaching Survey


I enjoy the challenge of sharing and instilling knowledge, particularly about the natural world and the amazing biodiversity within. Teaching in an area that I am passionate about allows me to teach with genuine enthusiasm and a strong commitment to showing students the value of their learning. Classes in both the laboratory and field provide great opportunities for applying knowledge and learning important skills. It is particularly stimulating to empower first year students to develop their fundamental disciplinary skills, and then to encourage them to refine and apply these in advanced units at a level that will make them attractive graduates in the workforce.


I have received strong mentoring from a number of academic staff, in particular Associate Professor Mike Calver and Emeritus Professor Jen McComb. Both Mike and Jen have been instrumental in supporting me from my early years of teaching through to the present with shared coordination of units and constant support in my role as Academic Chair.


Murdoch prides itself on an approach that encourages students from a wide variety of backgrounds, providing an enriching experience for both students and staff. With the recent challenges faced by Australian Universities, I would like to see Murdoch look at approaches that nurture our unique identity and continue to inspire students to choose to come to Murdoch over other institutions. In particular, to value those who are committed to high quality teaching at all levels- both undergraduate and postgraduate and to not lose sight of the important role that face to face teaching plays in providing engaging education and enhancing student retention.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Sarah Gillett

2015 SCHOOL OF VETERINARY AND LIFE SCIENCES PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Sarah GillettSchool of Veterinary & Life Sciences


I first started at Murdoch in 1999 as a receptionist at Murdoch’s on campus accommodation, Student Village. It was a great role where I had the opportunity to meet and help students from all over the world. I have since held various roles at Murdoch in School of Education, the Veterinary Teaching Hospital and finally as PA to the Dean and to the Executive Business Manager in the School of Veterinary and Life Sciences.

CONGRATULATIONS!Sarah Gillett

2015 School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Professional Services Award


I think I am at my best when helping others. I work with a super team here in the School office in Veterinary and Life Sciences at and am happy to be able to support them in any way I can.


I would like to sincerely thank both my managers, Fiona Feist, Executive Business Manager and David Hampson, Dean of School for their support and kindness during my time here in VLS, I am extremely lucky to work for two wonderful people. I would also like to extend my thanks to our School Executive, Giles Hardy, Professor Phil Nicholls, Yonglin Ren, Mike Calver and our Cluster Leaders, Peter Irwin, Richard Harper, Neil Loneragan and Wayne Greene for putting up with my million emails a day and for still maintaining such a great sense of humour. I consider myself very fortunate to work with such a great group of people.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Warren Timpson

2015 SCHOOL OF VETERINARY AND LIFE SCIENCES PROFESSIONAL SERVICES


I joined Murdoch on January 2015 as Practice Manager of Murdoch University Veterinary Hospital. My role is responsible for all the customer facing portions of our business from our General Practice clinic, through our referral clinics for both large and small animals.

Warren TimpsonPractise Manager, The Animal Hospital


CONGRATULATIONS!Warren Timpson

2015 School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Professional Services Award


The biggest buzz for me is seeing the happiness on the vet students faces when they have excelled at something or have mastered a new technique, they are priceless moments.


I feel privileged to have won this award, however I cannot take all the credit. I work with an amazing team of individuals who go the extra mile every day to ensure we deliver best practice in teaching and clinical work so they are as deserving as I.


I would like to see a more unified and collegial approach to the university with all schools and departments working for the greater good.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Navid Moheimani

2015 SCHOOL OF VETERINARY AND LIFE SCIENCES AWARD FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH

Dr Navid MoheimaniSenior Lecturer



I joined Murdoch University as a PhD student in 2001. I left Murdoch right after my graduation to work with Industry. In 2008, I decided to come back to Murdoch to work as an academic. My research is my main contribution to Murdoch University. Saying that, I also love teaching undergraduates. I chose Murdoch University as this place provide me with a unique environment to carry out my research and teaching.

CONGRATULATIONS!Dr Navid Moheimani

2015 School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Award for Interdisciplinary Research


There is a lot I like about my current research activities. My research is mostly concentrated on mass algal cultivation. The aim is to produce biofuel, food, animal feed and high value products as well as using algae to treat wastewater. These are novel and multidisciplinary fields of research. My main interest is to have a positive contribution in this field via publications and community and industry engagement.


There are number of people that I would like to thank, first and foremost all my Honours and postgraduate my students. Their effort and hard work is one of the main reasons that I manage to have a very good research output. I also like to thank my close collaborators, Prof Bahri, Dr Parlevliet and Dr van Keulen for their ongoing support.


Any university reputation depends highly on its academic excellence in research. I would like to see Murdoch University providing our researchers with a good environment to pursue research in their areas of excellence. I also like to see more translational research. We will need to attract industries to support our research.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr Jason Terpolilli

2015 SCHOOL OF VETERINARY AND LIFE SCIENCES AWARD FOR INNOVATIVE RESEARCH BY AN EARLY

CAREER ACADEMIC

Dr Jason TerpolilliLecturer, Biochemistry and Systems Biology



I joined Murdoch University as a lecturer in 2012 after postdoctoral research in the UK. I completed my PhD at Murdoch so coming back felt a lot like coming home and I was happy to be able to contribute to the positive teaching and productive research environment that I had experienced during my earlier studies. In my role I teach both introductory and advanced cell biology, microbiology and biochemistry to students in many of the majors in the school of Veterinary and Life Sciences and I am a member of the Centre for Rhizobium Studies research group where I supervise 4 PhD and 2 honours students.

CONGRATULATIONS!Dr Jason Terpolilli

2015 School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Award for Innovative Research by an Early Career Academic


Being the first person to discover something is really a huge thrill, which is why I enjoy research so much. The plus for me is that I get to work within a research group which uses this new knowledge to help improve sustainable farming practices in Australia. So, what we find in the laboratory or in the glasshouse can have a direct impact on land management and food production. That connection makes you feel that your work, while exciting and intellectually satisfying, is also making a difference.


I’d like to sincerely thank the members of the Centre for Rhizobium Studies for their support and for making the group such a stimulating place to work. In particular, I would like to acknowledge the group’s research leaders Professor John Howieson and Dr Graham O’Hara for their support and mentoring of me as an early-career academic. Also, Professor Philip Poole, an Alumnus of Murdoch University and a Sir Walter Murdoch Adjunct Professor, has been a source of advice and guidance for which I am extremely grateful.


Agriculture is an area of research strength at Murdoch that I think we have not fully capitalised on in the past in our teaching. Now, with the development of new undergraduate majors in this field, I think Murdoch is well placed to become a regional leader in this space by supporting and developing strong research-lead teaching in Agriculture.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Farm Staff

Kim Thomas, Bob Fawcett, Tony Eustace, Ralph Lyster

2015 SCHOOL OF VETERINARY AND LIFE SCIENCES AWARD - TEAM AWARD


I see my role and contribution as working towards and developing the Universities Principles and Visions turning this Farm into a significant rural asset that will play a key role in the future operations of Murdoch University’s School of Veterinary and Life Science.


There is a great deal of satisfaction in seeing people achieving success in what they do and what they want to do through learning. I believe that our youth are the future, to help them learn and see them achieve, is my reward.


I would like to see Whitby develop into a leading International Centre for Life Sciences Research, Learning and Community Engagement. Achievements would be the development of important strategic/operations here, supporting the University’s existing operations and function of the south street campus.

More community involvement such as visits by schools. Development of primary and secondary school programmes with access to this site.