Professor Megan Cassidy-Welch to be Dean of Research Strategy

Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Sherlock and Vice-Chancellor elect Professor James McLaren are delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Megan Cassidy-Welch FAHA FRHS as Dean of Research Strategy at the University of Divinity.

Professor Cassidy-Welch brings a wealth of experience in research, research training and research leadership to the University, having previously held leadership roles at Monash University, the University of Queensland, and Australian Catholic University. She is author of four monographs, seven edited collections, and dozens of articles, with her most recent work examining the history of religious violence, especially in the Crusades. In 2023 she was elected Fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities.

Professor Sherlock said: “Professor Cassidy-Welch has an outstanding track record nationally and internationally as a historian of medieval Europe, reflected in her ability to win several ARC grants. Her style of leadership at University schools and departments, and her advocacy for the humanities, align strongly with the University’s mission, strategic commitments and research agenda.”

Professor Cassidy-Welch said: “I am delighted and honoured to join the University of Divinity as Dean of Research Strategy. The University’s genuine commitment to meaningful and impactful collaborative humanities research across a range of disciplinary areas is truly exciting. I look forward to leading the delivery of the University’s research strategy in partnership with the Colleges, Schools and their extensive networks including church and community organisations.”

The Dean of Research Strategy is a senior officer of the University of Divinity, reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor. Professor Cassidy-Welch will commence with the University in April 2024, based at the St Paschal’s estate in Box Hill and working closely with the Research Coordinators of the University’s Colleges and Schools throughout Australia.

Media enquiries: Meg Nelson | University of Divinity Operations Manager | mnelson@divinity.edu.au | 03 9853 3177