The University of Melbourne and the Australian scientific community are in mourning following the death of Professor Emma Johnston AO, the university's first female vice-chancellor. The renowned marine scientist and transformative leader passed away at the age of 52 due to complications associated with cancer.
A Legacy of Leadership and Science
Professor Johnston's family announced her passing in a statement on Monday, expressing heartbreak but also comfort from the widespread respect for her life and work. Her death represents a profound loss for higher education, scientific research, and environmental policy in Australia. Johnston was a chief author of Australia's latest State of the Environment Report and held pivotal roles including director of the CSIRO and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
Her academic career was distinguished, with leadership positions at the University of New South Wales as Dean of Science and the University of Sydney as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research). She returned to her alma mater, the University of Melbourne, where she completed her PhD, to make history in February as its first woman vice-chancellor.
An Unwavering Commitment to Students and Science
University Chancellor Jane Hansen said Johnston made a significant impact during her brief tenure. "Her extensive experience as a leader in education and research, her understanding of the increasingly complex university environment and her care for our entire community leaves an imprint that belies her short tenure," Hansen stated.
Hansen highlighted Johnston's dedication to students, from tackling cost-of-living pressures to championing scholarships and teaching quality. "Most of all, she just liked spending time with them to hear their stories. They were her inspiration," she said.
Johnston was a powerful advocate for women in STEM, actively encouraging girls and women to pursue scientific careers. She was elected a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science in 2022 and was made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2018 for her services to higher education.
National Tributes for a Visionary Leader
Federal Education Minister Jason Clare expressed shock, describing Johnston as one of Australia's "biggest brains and nicest people" and a genuine reformer in university leadership.
Science and Technology Australia, where Johnston served as a former president, praised her as "a transformative science leader with a passion to improve education and create opportunities." President Jas Chambers noted that STA is one of many institutions to benefit from her visionary leadership.
The University of Melbourne has announced plans to commemorate Professor Johnston's immense contribution, with details to be shared in the coming period. Her legacy will endure through the work of her countless students, colleagues, and mentees across the nation's scientific and academic landscape.
