Emma Johnston, University of Melbourne Vice-Chancellor, Dies at 52
Emma Johnston AO, the first female vice-chancellor of the University of Melbourne, has died at age 52 from complications with cancer. She took up the role in February 2025 at the institution, which has a history spanning 172 years.
Johnston's academic journey was deeply connected to the University of Melbourne, where she completed her undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies in marine ecology. Throughout her career, she authored approximately 185 peer-reviewed journal articles and supervised over 35 students.
She was a chief author of Australia's most recent State of the Environment report and held significant leadership positions including director of the CSIRO, director of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, governor of the Ian Potter Foundation, and former president of Science and Technology Australia.
Recognized for her contributions, Johnston was made an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2018 and was elected a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science in 2022.
Chancellor Jane Hansen praised her optimism, energy, and dedication to students, while Education Minister Jason Clare described her as a real reformer. The university plans to commemorate her contributions in due course, with acting vice-chancellor Michael Wesley continuing in the position. Johnston's family expressed their heartbreak, highlighting her enduring legacy through the students and mentees she inspired.
