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Four USC academics become professors
Hard work and dedication have paid off for four senior academics at the University of the Sunshine Coast.
Brendan Burkett, Joanne Scott, Helen Wallace and Margaret McAllister have each started 2010 with the new title of Professor, after gaining promotions in late 2009.
Three of the academics have worked at USC for more than a decade.
USC’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Thomas AM congratulated the new professors for their sustained academic performance and achievements.
“Three of the new professors commenced as lecturers in the University’s first two years and, through significant achievements in teaching, research and engagement, have worked their way through the ranks to reach professorial level,” he said.
Professor Thomas said this was the first time USC had promoted four academics to the rank of professor at any one time.
Professor Burkett of the Faculty of Science, Health and Education specialises in biomechanics, sports coaching and performance enhancement. His research areas include technology and software developments in human health and performance.
He is the Director of USC’s Centre for Healthy Activities, Sport and Exercise (CHASE) and has been the sports scientist for the Australian Paralympic Swimming team at numerous international events.
Professor Scott of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences teaches and researches Australian history and oral history.
She recently co-authored a book, called Showtime, about the history of the Brisbane Exhibition. This book, along with a Museum of Brisbane display on the Ekka, won a gold award at the 2009 National Trust of Queensland’s Governor’s Heritage Awards.
Professor Wallace of the Faculty of Science, Health and Education specialises in agricultural ecology and teaching in environmental science subjects.
Her research is focused on the science of plant reproduction and entomology and she currently manages a research portfolio of around $4 million in forestry, horticulture and climate change projects.
Professor McAllister of the Faculty of Science, Health and Education specialises in mental health nursing, and her research areas include self injury, nursing history and mental health leadership.
She is engaged in research projects that include: improving the quality and safety in health care for non-suicidal self-injury; quality of life in dementia; and solution-focused nursing.
— Terry Walsh