New Dean looking to attract students into Sciences

The University of Southern Queensland's (USQ) new Dean of Sciences, Professor Janet Verbyla, is eager to promote opportunities for graduates of science, technology and mathematics as part of her new role.

Professor Verbyla joins USQ from Flinders University in South Australia where she held the position of Head of the School of Informatics and Engineering.

Professor Verbyla said she was eager to encourage people to consider higher education in sciences as part of her roles as Dean of Sciences and Pro Vice-Chancellor Learning Technologies at USQ.

'At the graduate end there is a huge demand in science, technology and mathematics. Input into education in these areas is so small, things have to change. There are lots of opportunities for graduates,' Professor Verbyla said.

'Health, biotechnology, food, security and environmental sustainability – we need a skilled workforce in these areas to meet the industry opportunities and social challenges.'

Professor Verbyla said part of her decision to join USQ was the University's reputation for distance education and the large number of mature-age students.

'It is an interesting University. Because of the distance education focus USQ has a broader interest in learning and teaching methodologies.

'The whole education market, particularly at a tertiary education level, is going to change.

'I heard a comment recently saying ‘they are just not making enough 18 year olds'. Any university that is solely dependent on school leavers may find it difficult in the coming years with the changing demographics.'

Professor Verbyla said Australia's ageing population coupled with a declining interest in science and technology will also affect the national economy.

'Not only is there not enough young people, there is not the interest when national and international economies are depending on areas of science and innovation.

'Universities need to be more like brokers and encourage industry to go to schools and say ‘There is a demand for graduates from these areas. This is a recent graduate who has a fantastic job with great prospects'. 
 
'We need to show them that scientists do get invited to parties and to move away from that Einstein image.'

Media Contact: Jane Urquhart, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2559