Staff Election - Nominees

Associate Professor Jeremy Brownlie

I bring 17 years of experience at Griffith. Teaching first-year students keeps me connected to their evolving experiences and expectations. As Deputy Head of School or Director of Partnerships (Sciences) I have seen the challenges of aligning staff needs to Griffith’s resources and strategy. As the Group delegate, I represent Science Faculty on University Workload or Academic Committees. Beyond Griffith, I bring a decade of board governance experience and currently serve on the Prime Minister’s National Science and Technology Council. If elected, I will use my experience and networks to strengthen Griffith’s future and represent the Faculty.

Associate Professor Lee Morgenbesser

I have been at Griffith University all my academic life – starting as an undergraduate student and coming all the way through to my current position as an associate professor with the School of Government and International Relations. During this time, I have created multiple mentoring programs/training and held several leadership positions at different levels of the University. Most recently, I was the HDR Director for the Griffith Business School, where I implemented a program of systemic change and earned formal recognition for my leadership. If elected to the University Council, I would provide a pragmatic and passionate voice.

Associate Professor Johanna Nalau

I am a social scientist focusing on how we can adapt to climate change. At Griffith since 2009, my internal roles include Research Committee, School of Environment and Science Committee, and Program Director for Masters of Climate Change Adaptation. I bring high-level committee and board experience: Co-chair of the Science Committee at UN World Adaptation Science Program, Coordinating Lead Author for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, and Advisor to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. If elected, I will work to ensure international excellence but also inclusive and fair in decisions impacting staff and students.

Professor Maxime Aubert

As your representative on Council, I will champion academic values over commercial pressures. I stand for stronger governance, equitable job security, and respect for teaching integrity amid casualisation. I’ve witnessed firsthand the damage caused by bureaucratic top-down decisions and overworked staff struggling under misaligned incentives. I will push for transparent leadership and accountability, ensuring that student learning and research excellence—not revenue models—drive our institution forward. With a commitment to collegiality and shared decision-making, I will work to restore trust, reshape priorities, and reaffirm our university’s mission as a place of intellectual independence and public good.

Professor Paul Scuffham

I bring two decades of leadership at Griffith, where I founded the Centre for Applied Health Economics and directed the former Menzies Health Institute Queensland. Ranked among the world’s top 2% of researchers, I combine expertise in health, business, science, and governance. As a Fellow and Board member of the Australian Academy of Health & Medical Sciences, I chair its Policy Advisory Committee and shape national health policy. I also serve on NHMRC and MRFF committees. At Griffith, I’ve contributed to Research and Senior Promotions Committees. I offer proven leadership, strategic insight, and commitment to representing academic staff on Council.

Dr Robyn-Ann Cameron

I’m honoured to nominate for University Council, bringing curiosity, empathy and a collaborative spirit to what I do. My experience across University committees, alongside external roles as a Non-Executive Board Director and fundraising chair, has prepared me to contribute effectively to strategic, inclusive governance. My GAID qualification further strengthens this foundation. Being named the 2025 Gold Coast Australian of the Year reflects a leadership style grounded in integrity, impact, innovation, inclusion and action. I’m committed to advocating for all stakeholders and shaping a transparent, future-focused University. I’d value your support in this shared journey.

Professor Matthew Currell

I am a professor and head of Civil and Environmental Engineering. I was appointed to Griffith in 2023 after 13 years at RMIT, where I directed the environmental engineering program and served on academic board. From 2026 I will commence an ARC Future Fellowship in the Australian Rivers Institute. I am passionate about tertiary education and the role universities play in society. If elected I would carefully scrutinise matters put before council and ensure robust debate focussing on the impacts for Griffith’s students and staff. I would be a consultative representative who ensures academic staff are given a strong voice.

Dr Carolyn Hastie

As a Senior Lecturer and researcher, I believe the strength of our university lies in the expertise of its diverse academic voices. I am committed to ensuring those voices are meaningfully represented in Council decision-making. My priorities include advocating for fair and sustainable workloads, safeguarding academic freedom, and shaping a clear, future-focused vision for tertiary education. Guided by equity, transparency, and collegial governance, I will bring integrity, experience, and a collaborative spirit to Council. I am dedicated to working with colleagues across all faculties to uphold the values that define and strengthen our university community.

Professor Lopez Ramirez Jose Alejandro (Alejandro Lopez)

With over 40 years in Academia across four countries, I offer experienced, collegial leadership and a global perspective. At Griffith, I chair the Human Research Ethics Committee and serve as Discipline Head in Biosciences—roles through which I’ve consistently championed fairness, transparency, and respectful collaboration. My service on the University’s Academic and Promotions Committees within the Health and Science Groups reflects a strong commitment to supporting staff and fostering academic excellence. I’m passionate about shaping Griffith’s future through inclusive, values-driven decision-making. If elected, I’ll continue to advocate for integrity, collegiality, and strong staff representation in guiding our University’s direction.

Professor Sarah Cresswell

I have been an academic for 28 years, 15 of those at Griffith University after moving from the UK in 2010. I am now a Professor but joined Griffith as a Senior Lecturer and have watched the University grow as I have grown my career. I have served as a member of the Board of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute and am the Queensland President of the Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society and my experience I believe, makes me a strong candidate to support the work of the University Council and I am therefore seeking election.

Professor Tim Ryley

I have been at Griffith University for over 10 years, recruited as the inaugural Professor of Aviation. Roles here include Head of Discipline (Griffith Aviation) and Head of School (Natural Sciences). Industry partnerships and environmental sustainability are core to the work I do. I am keen to make staff views matter during these dynamic and disruptive times for universities, particularly on governance bodies such as the University Council. This aligns with my desire to see increased leadership accountability and transparency, so that Griffith University can move towards a more financially secure and vibrant future.

Associate Professor Amanda Daly

Over the last 11 years, Amanda Daly has held several leadership roles in Griffith Business School including Deputy Dean Learning & Teaching, Interim Head of Department of Business Strategy and Innovation. Currently she is the Academic Director of EmpowerED, leading the implementation of this university wide initiative to widen participation and support student success. She has a long history of serving on university committees including the current appointment to Academic Committee (2024-current), and for example, the People and Culture Advisory group. Her work is deeply people- and purpose-focused, grounded in values of inclusion, integrity, and social impact.

Dr Samid Suliman

I am currently Director, International for AEL and Senior Lecturer in HLSS. Over my 10 years at Griffith, I have nurtured excellent relationships with academic and professional colleagues across the university, through teaching, research and service. During this time, I have participated extensively in university governance, and am currently in my third year as an elected member of Academic Committee. In this role, I prioritise core principles of accountably, fairness, transparency, and justice. At this critical time for the university sector, I will bring this wealth of experience and strong ethical framework to my work on the Griffith University Council.

Dr Kerry Hall

As a Kuku Thaypan, Lama Lama woman, my journey at Griffith University is deeply rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing, guided by Aboriginal pedagogies. This foundation shapes my contributions across teaching, research, and community engagement, aligning with Griffith’s commitment to Indigenous flourishing and social justice. I lead university-wide innovation in Cultural Safety and curriculum design, creating inclusive learning environments. I champion the vision “You can’t be what you can’t see,” empowering Indigenous staff and students, and guiding non-Indigenous colleagues to become informed allies. My work reflects a commitment to transformative education and Indigenous knowledge systems.

Professor Tanya Smith

I am standing for the University Council to better support early-career colleagues, mitigate roadblocks to research productivity, and increase transparency in decision-making. I have served as the NTEU Representative to the University Equity Committee (2017-21), AEL Representative to the Pride Committee (2021-22), and on the HLSS Research Committee (2021-2022) while working as an ARC Future Fellow since 2021. My background leading units in research-intensive institutes and universities in Germany and the USA, coupled with appointments in both Griffith Sciences and AEL, give me a unique vantage point to represent the diverse skills and current needs of Griffith’s academic staff.

Nicole Chambers

For 20 years, I have been proud to contribute to Griffith through professional roles that deliver strategic impact while supporting student success, staff wellbeing, and industry engagement. My work has focused on creating positive change—whether by shaping policy, leading innovation, or building connections that open opportunities for others. I understand the challenges and opportunities facing higher education, and the vital role professional staff play in Griffith’s future. I am committed to ensuring our voices are represented in Council decisions and would be honoured to serve as your representative, championing collaboration, fairness, and long-term growth.

Joanne Chang

With extensive professional experience across Griffith University, I bring a strong commitment to inclusive and ethical decision-making. I have a proven record of fostering innovation, championing equity, and strengthening community partnerships. Guided by integrity, transparency, and psychosocial impact principles, I prioritize well-being, inclusion, and evidence-based practices that support sustainable growth. I value inclusive dialogue, student success, and academic excellence, and I am dedicated to shaping a forward-thinking, resilient institution. My experience equips me to contribute meaningfully to the University Council’s mission and long-term vision through compassionate, community-centered, and strategically informed contributions.

Vatsal Naik

I am committed to ensuring professional staff perspectives are strongly represented at Griffith University’s highest level of governance.  In my role as Operations Coordinator, I oversee multi-campus landscape operations that integrate sustainability, safety and service delivery.  As a current member of the Campus Life HSW Committee, I contribute to the University-wide governance on health, safety and wellbeing—an experience that has sharpened my ability to balance operational realities with strategic decision-making.  If elected, I will advocate for inclusive decision-making, transparent communication and professional staff development, while preserving dignity and ensuring our collective voice supports Griffith’s values and long-term vision.

Kyah Hendriks

As a proud Ngugi woman from Quandamooka Country, I bring a strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and the advancement of First Peoples outcomes in higher education. Since graduating from Griffith University in 2021 with a dual degree, and joining the University professionally in 2022, I have remained deeply engaged in shaping meaningful student experiences. My work is grounded in a passion for driving student success and fostering environments where all can flourish. I offer a perspective that is both informed by lived experience and guided by a deep understanding of Griffith’s values, culture, and commitment to excellence in education.

Tasha Langham (candidate has withdrawn)

I have served on Council for the past four years, bringing experience and a strong professional staff voice to the table. I am a passionate advocate for professional staff and do not shy away from asking the difficult questions to ensure our perspectives are heard. With an MBA, GAICD, and experience in strategic leadership, governance, and organisational change, I am committed to thoughtful, balanced decision-making that supports Griffith’s future. I would greatly appreciate your ongoing support to continue representing our professional staff community on Council with integrity, transparency, and commitment.

Samantha Devine

With over five years at Griffith across student administration, analytics, and school management, I bring deep operational insight and a strong commitment to staff wellbeing. I believe professional staff are essential to shaping Griffith’s future, and I’m passionate about amplifying our voices in decision making forums. I strive to foster a culture where people feel heard, valued, and empowered to contribute. If elected to Council, I’ll champion inclusive decision-making, advocate for meaningful change, and ensure our collective experience informs the University’s direction. Together, we can build a workplace that reflects our values and supports every member of our community.

Julian Lam

As a finance professional, I bring strong expertise in financial integrity, risk management, and operations - key to effective governance oversight.  My knowledge of regulatory compliance and internal controls supports transparent, accountable decision-making.  My exposure to diverse governance structures has provided valuable insights into effective governance, while my role as a professional staff member provides a practical, operational lens. I offer a commitment to ethical leadership, inclusive engagement, and collaborative governance - aligned with Griffith's strategic values. I'm dedicated to supporting the University's long-term sustainability, integrity, and positive impact through effective and responsible council participation.

Dr Samid Suliman

Associate Professor Popi Sotiriadou

Associate Professor Amanda Daly

Associate Professor Ryan Tang

Dr Kelly Shoecraft

Professor Hang Ta

Professor Ivan Diaz-Rainey

Professor Sue Trevaskes

Associate Professor Stacy Tzoumakis

Associate Professor Robert Mason

Professor Ian Hall

Associate Professor Popi Sotiriadou

Associate Professor Ryan Tang

Professor Shirui Pan

I am a Professor, ARC Future Fellow, and internationally recognised researcher in artificial intelligence. With extensive academic experience, I have served on grant review panels, editorial boards, as an academic promotion referee, and on international conference committees, providing balanced and rigorous assessment of research excellence. At Griffith, I have contributed to teaching, supervision, and academic leadership, mentoring colleagues and students. I am committed to fairness, transparency, and supporting academic career progression. As a member of the Promotion Committee, I will bring an informed, collegial, and constructive perspective to evaluating applications for promotion.

Associate Professor Erwin Oh

My name is Erwin Oh and I am an Associate Professor at the School of Engineering and Built Environment. My journey with Griffith University began 18 years ago when I first joined as a Lecturer. With eight years of leadership role as the Director International for Sciences, I have developed an understanding of each segment of the university. Being a committee member is a great way to make Griffith University a better place to work for us all. For these reasons, I like to be considered for the Committee Member for Sciences Group Promotions Committee.