Professor Craig Simmons has been appointed to the role of Pro Vice-Chancellor (Strategic Research Projects), in support of Flinders’ additional $100 million research investment announced this year and to assist in meeting the research strategic goals of the University.

Professor Simmons has earned a reputation as a distinguished researcher, providing national and international research leadership and fostering excellence in research, principally through the creation and nurturing of the outstanding National Centre for Groundwater Research and Training.

In his new role, which Professor Simmons commenced on Monday 1 July 2019, he will be instrumental in assisting the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Professor Robert Saint and his team to deliver research excellence, which is core to achieving the strategic goals of the 2025 Agenda and improving the University’s overall research performance.

In addition to this substantive position, for the next two years Professor Simmons will provide strategic advice and support on the development of the University’s research capacity and performance. He will retain his role as Director of the National Centre for Groundwater Research and Training.

His appointment signals an investment in ensuring Flinders University achieves transformational change in research.