Vale Laureate Professor Scott Sloan AO
The University of Newcastle community is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of world-renowned geotechnical engineer, Laureate Professor Scott Sloan AO, on Tuesday 23 April 2019.
Internationally recognised for his work in soil stability analysis, Laureate Professor Sloan was Director of an ARC Centre of Excellence for Geotechnical Science and Engineering and an ARC Laureate Fellow. He was a Fellow of the Royal Society, and in 2005 was named one of the 100 Most Influential Engineers by Engineers Australia.
In 2018, Laureate Professor Sloan was made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service to education, particularly in the field of geotechnical engineering, as an academic and researcher to professional associations, and as a mentor of young engineers.
Passionate about cross-disciplinary research, Laureate Professor Sloan worked in the broad area of geotechnical engineering with a special emphasis on computational methods. Just last month his research with Dr Brett Turner was awarded $4.7m to help investigate and treat water and soil contaminated with PFAS – a significant issue for parts of our community.
Pro Vice-Chancellor for Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Professor Brett Ninness described Laureate Professor Sloan as an “iconic leader”, among those who led the University of Newcastle onto the world stage.
“His personal research accomplishments were a vital part of that journey,” said Professor Ninness.
“But, strong as they were, they were eclipsed by his vision and leadership to nurture and empower future generations of leading researchers and teachers.”
“While his legacy involves much empowerment to others, his personal recognitions were at the very highest level, including a Fellowship of the Royal Society (London), Fellowship of Australian Academy of Science (AAS) and Fellowship of Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering (ATSE).
“His vision, talents and generosity will be sorely missed.”
Scott’s passing will be mourned greatly by his colleagues, students and the broader university community. We send our deepest condolences to his wife Denise, children, extended family and friends.
Colleagues and friends are respectfully invited to attend a celebration of Scott's life and academic achievements on Wednesday 8 May commencing 5pm at the Conservatorium, University of Newcastle, corner Auckland and Laman Streets, Newcastle.
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The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.