Professor Jenny Seddon appointed as the new DVCR at James Cook University

Dear colleagues,

I’m writing to let you know that Professor Jenny Seddon, Associate Dean Research and Deputy Executive Dean in the Faculty of Science, has been appointed as the new Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research at James Cook University.

Whilst this will be a huge loss for UQ and especially the Faculty of Science, I am delighted for Jenny on this significant and well-deserved achievement and share my sincere congratulations.

Jenny’s contribution to UQ in research and beyond cannot be understated. As Associate Dean Research, Jenny has overseen an increase in industry partnered research funding, instituted a suite of researcher development training, established the ScienceLink EMCA mentoring program, and led a project on the future directions of partnered research in the Faculty of Science. She led the successful Science with Impact seed funding scheme, established the Covid Research Recovery Funding and was instrumental in several strategic funding and RSP funding applications. She has led units through periods of change, including Science Contracts and the closure of Gatton Piggery. Jenny has been an active mentor, supporter and coach of early-mid career academics, Deputy ADRs and Centre Directors. 

Jenny has also been an accomplished T&R academic in the School of Veterinary Science since 2004, including a period as Deputy Head of School, playing a leading role in the successful accreditation in 2018, and leading a veterinary education twinning project in Vietnam. Her research has established her with an international reputation when it comes to the use of genetic tools to address ecological questions in support of the conservation of wildlife. Her passion for quality student-centred veterinary education is sure to have left an indelible mark on many students.

As DVCR at JCU, Jenny will provide strategic leadership of the research division as a key member of the university’s executive, including building strategic alliances and partnerships, and advancing the profile of the university.

Jenny will be finishing at UQ in mid-March to take up her appointment at JCU in mid-April 2023. The DVCRI and I will commence a process for appointing the next Associate Dean Research and interim arrangements will be determined shortly.

Please join me in congratulating Jenny on her new role and thanking her for her enormous contribution to UQ. 

Please note that an all-staff announcement will be included in the Faculty newsletter later this week.

Kind regards,

Professor Melissa Brown
Executive Dean - Faculty of Science