New dean of engineering to begin at Uni Melbourne next week

Professor Thas Nirmalathas, Interim Dean since January 2024, will officially begin as Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology at the University of Melbourne on Monday.

Nirmalathas (pictured) is a professor on electrical and electronic engineering as well as a Fellow of both Engineers Australia and the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering. 

According to a statement from University of Melbourne on Friday, Nirmalathas has over 26 years of postdoctoral research experience, and is “deeply engaged in cutting-edge research, exploring areas such as optical wireless network integration, photonic computing, heterogeneous photonic integrated circuits and advanced wireless communication technologies.”

The appointment comes after an international selection process, the university said.

“I look forward to continuing to lead the exceptional staff at FEIT, to supporting an inclusive community with a strong focus on supporting our outstanding students, and to working closely with our alumni, partners and stakeholders,” said Nirmalathas.

“I have an enduring and passionate commitment to ensuring that the University of Melbourne continues to build on its global leadership position and advance scholarship and education for the greater benefit of society.”

The professor has previously held roles at Uni Melbourne, including Deputy Dean (Research), Institute Director for the Melbourne Networked Society Institute, and Co-Founder and Director of the Melbourne Accelerator Program.  

Picture: supplied