World-renowned sociologist to lead Newcastle faculty
The University of Newcastle today announced the appointment of its new Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Education and Arts, Professor John Germov.
University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nick Saunders, said Professor Germov has a distinguished academic career as an internationally-recognised sociologist, with 16 books and 86 other publications to date.
“His market-leading text Public Sociology: An Introduction to Australian Society (2007) has shaped the way sociology is taught and studied in Australia,” Professor Saunders said.
“The University is privileged to have someone of Professor Germov’s calibre leading the Faculty of Education and Arts.
"The University will be strengthened by his vision for the faculty to be a leader in interdisciplinary collaboration in research, teaching and international engagement.”
Professor Germov joined the University in 1993 as a lecturer.
He was appointed Head of the School of Humanities and Social Science in 2008 and has been Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Education of Arts since October 2010.
Professor Germov said it was a privilege to be appointed to lead education and arts at the University of Newcastle.
“I’m motivated by ‘making a difference’ to people’s lives," he said.
"By enhancing the student and staff experience, we can collectively add value to the social and cultural life of our community, and prepare graduates who are work-ready global citizens.
“The key areas of our Faculty - education, the creative arts, humanities and social sciences - have much to contribute to understanding our future and addressing the world’s problems.”
Since 2009 Professor Germov has been the Secretary of the Australasian Council of Deans of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, the national body on research and teaching in humanities and social sciences.
He is a former President of the Australian Sociological Association, serving on its executive for 12 years.
He has also served as an executive board member of the International Sociological Association.
In 2010, his professional service was recognised in a prestigious national honour, the Outstanding Service to the Australian Sociological Association Award.
Media contact: Carmen Swadling, Media and Public Relations, on 02 4985 4276 or 0428 038 477.