One of Deakin University's strongest assets that puts us at the top of Victorian university rankings is our extensive network of industry connections. Our collaborations with leading businesses, organisations and professionals inform what we teach and how we teach, as well as provide you with invaluable opportunities to gain real-world experience.
Through internships, placements and industry projects, Deakin students apply their knowledge in practical settings while learning, building professional networks and enhancing their graduate employability. These connections also allow Deakin to stay abreast of industry needs and adapt our programs accordingly.
Industry-engaged academics
Our academic staff are deeply connected to industry, maintaining strong ties with the sector. They act as a dynamic bridge between academic theory and real-world practice. Their ongoing engagement with industry keeps them up to date on the latest trends and best practices, and informs the continuous innovation of our courses.
The expertise and industry connections of our faculty Executive Deans ensure that our curriculum remains relevant, innovative and aligned with current market demands. They lead by example, energising the academic staff to prepare students to excel in their chosen careers. These inspiring leaders are:
Professor Simon Tormey, Executive Dean of Arts and Education is an internationally renowned academic in political sociology, organisational studies, social theory and the history of ideas. A global leader, Simon is the author or co-author of seven books and over 60 scholarly articles, with work translated into nine languages.
Professor Jenni Lightowlers, Executive Dean of Faculty of Business and Law is a highly regarded adviser to universities in Australia and the South Pacific on research commercialisation and governance. A leading lawyer in life sciences and commercialisation of intellectual property, she is a founding partner of the technology law firm, Francis Abourizk Lightowlers.
Professor Rachel Huxley, Executive Dean of Faculty of Health is an epidemiologist with an international reputation in understanding how risk factors and health outcomes are impacted by bias and inequity. Rachel holds honorary appointments at the University of Oxford and at the George Institute for Global Health, affiliated with University of NSW, Sydney.
Professor Nick Birbilis, Executive Dean of Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment is an award-winning engineer, having worked across the research-industry nexus for over two decades. He is passionate about the use of advanced technology in creating a better world and the enablement of staff and students to have impact on their communities on a local and global scale.