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https://theconversation.com/emma-johnston-was-a-visionary-scientist-environmentalist-and-leader-with-an-abiding-hope-for-humanity-272609>
"Emma Johnston, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Melbourne who has died
aged 52, was a marine ecologist, a visionary leader in science and research, a
passionate champion of the environment, a brilliant and engaging communicator,
and a caring mentor. Emma was also our friend.
Born in 1973 and raised in Melbourne, Emma’s star rose swiftly. Her success was
driven by a deep love of science, problem-solving and teamwork. Dux of
University High School in Melbourne (where there is now a house named after
her), she ran the student newspaper and launched an environment group and
recycling program.
After completing a PhD in marine ecology at the University of Melbourne, Emma
became an associate lecturer at UNSW in 2001, where she built a thriving
research group studying the impacts of pollution and climate change on marine
and coastal ecosystems. In 2005 she established the Sydney Harbour Research
Program, to understand and remediate that city’s great natural asset.
These themes of complexity, interdependence and ecosystem resilience would
become guiding metaphors for her subsequent career as a research leader and a
fierce advocate for science.
Emma believed research should be about teamwork rather than personal accolades.
She supervised a remarkable 33 PhD students, as well as honours students and
postdoctoral researchers, and she mentored countless colleagues throughout her
career. Busy but never hurried, Emma was generous with her time and attention,
and she loved meeting bright and curious people."
RIP,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
