University of Auckland appoints new Dean of Science

The University has announced its Dean of Science to fill the position vacated by Professor John Hosking, who is retiring.  

The new Dean of Science is Professor Sarah Young, who is currently executive dean in the Faculty of Science at the University of Canterbury, where she is also a senior leadership team member.

Professor Young was previously head of the School of Medical Sciences at the University of Sydney and, prior to that, held a range of leadership positions, including Deputy Dean of the Dunedin School of Medicine at the University of Otago.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dawn Freshwater said the University is delighted at the appointment.

Professor Young, who gained her PhD in Immunology from the University of Otago in 2000, is also the current board chair of the Institute of Environmental Science and Research and a board member of the Canterbury Medical Research Foundation.

In addition to her leadership strengths, Professor Young brings particular expertise in education and curriculum development, and has recently overseen a review of the University of Canterbury’s BSc and MSc programmes.

Professor Young said there are many opportunities ahead for the Faculty of Science.

“I see it as a privilege to be able to lead such an outstanding and comprehensive faculty. I look forward to working with the kaimahi and tauira and continuing to build a collegial and supportive academic environment focused on excellence.”

Professor Young will take up the role in October, and will be joined by her family and two dogs in Auckland at the end of the school year.