Former University of Wollongong council member Dr Alex Zelinsky has been announced the new vice-chancellor and president of the University of Newcastle.
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Australia’s chief defence scientist will start in his new role in November.
Dr Zelinsky holds a Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences (Honours), a Doctor of Philosophy, and in 2010 was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science, all from UOW. He also served as a member of the university’s council from 2012-2015.
University of Newcastle Chancellor, Mr Paul Jeans, said an extensive international search for the position was conducted and the Council was delighted Dr Zelinsky had accepted the role.
“Dr Zelinsky has the rare combination of experience in research, education, industry and start-ups – a background that will help our university further collaborate and connect across the region and the globe,” he said.
Mr Jeans said equity and social justice were core values for UON, adding one in four students come from low socio-economic backgrounds.
“Inspired by his father’s transition from steelworks labourer to university graduate, Dr Zelinsky knows first-hand how education can unlock potential and enable someone to change the world,” he said.
“We’re confident that Dr Zelinsky will take these strengths and secure UON’s position as an exceptional educational institution, grounded in research that really makes an impact, and secured through partnerships that have a strong commercial focus.”
Dr Zelinsky will be the eighth vice-chancellor in the university’s 53-year history.