Groundwater scientist Craig Simmons to lead University of Newcastle research

newy.com.au – The University of Newcastle has appointed prominent groundwater scientist Professor Craig Simmons as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation, adding one of Australia’s most recognised water researchers to its executive leadership team.

The university announced the appointment on February 11 after what it described as a highly competitive global recruitment process. Professor Simmons has served since 2022 as Pro Vice-Chancellor of the university’s College of Engineering, Science and Environment, and is also Chief Scientist for South Australia.

His appointment places him in charge of the university’s research and innovation portfolio, with responsibility for strategic leadership, research performance, industry and global partnerships, and the translation of discoveries into practical outcomes.

University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky said the appointment was important to the university’s research ambitions under its Looking Ahead 2030 strategy.

“Professor Simmons is an outstanding research leader whose career exemplifies both academic excellence and real-world impact,” Professor Zelinsky said.

“His deep experience across science, policy and innovation makes him exceptionally well placed to lead the next phase of the University’s research and innovation strategy as part of Looking Ahead 2030.

“Professor Simmons has an impressive track record of building high-performing teams and delivering research outcomes that address complex global challenges, and I am delighted to welcome him to this critical leadership role.”

Professor Simmons has held senior research and leadership roles across the tertiary and science sectors, including Foundation Director of the ARC National Centre for Groundwater Research and Training, Pro Vice-Chancellor Research at Flinders University, and Executive Director at the Australian Research Council, where he oversaw mathematics, physics, chemistry and earth sciences.

A Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science, the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering, and the American Geophysical Union, Professor Simmons has received honours including the Australian Academy of Science Anton Hales Medal, South Australian Scientist of the Year, Australian Water Professional of the Year, and the International Association of Hydrogeologists Presidents’ Award.

His work has also contributed to major international scientific projects, including as a lead author of the United Nations World Water Development Report Groundwater: Making the Invisible Visible, and as a contributing author to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Sixth Assessment Report.

Professor Simmons said he was honoured to take on the role.

“The University of Newcastle has a strong and growing reputation for research excellence and meaningful community impact,” Professor Simmons said.

“I am excited to work with colleagues and partners to strengthen our research performance, foster innovation, and translate our discoveries into real-world outcomes that benefit our region and the world.

“Together, we have an opportunity to build on existing strengths and position the University as a leader in addressing the critical challenges of our time.”