As we reflect on the first quarter of the year, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the strong start we’ve made together. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved so far and genuinely inspired by the energy, commitment, and integrity you continue to bring to your work. I remain confident that our collective efforts will take us from good to great.
I would like to give a special thanks to everyone who completed their Performance and Professional Development Review (PPDR) by 31 March. This process is far more than an administrative requirement—it’s a meaningful opportunity to reflect on accomplishments, set clear goals, and shape your professional journey. Timely completion also ensures eligibility for increment progression in March, June, or July, depending on your employment. I appreciate your commitment to a culture of reflection, accountability, and continuous improvement.
To support your development and success, we are deliberately investing in high-impact professional development opportunities. We’re aligning support with key teaching and research milestones through initiatives like the Friday Bright Spot series, and the launch of our new Faculty Professional Development Hub (Learning & Teaching | Research). These resources are designed to enhance your scholarly practice, inspire innovation, and equip you with tools to thrive in your roles.
Our BJBS podcast, Ergo Cogito, continues to showcase the depth and breadth of excellence within our Faculty. Recent episodes with Dr. Rachel Hogg, Professor Jac Birt, and Dr Amanda Davies highlight the dynamic intersection of research, teaching, and disciplinary insight. I encourage you to tune in—these conversations are a reminder of the remarkable work happening across our community.
Building on last year’s success, Associate Dean Research Professor Zahid Islam will lead several impactful FOBJBS Seminars on diverse research topics. In 2025, we are excited to offer two key seminar initiatives:
- 2025 FOBJBS Executive Dean’s Research PD (started in February 2025)
- 2025 FOBJBS Executive Dean’s Research Seminar Series (kicking off in May 2025)
These seminars promise to be enriching and insightful, driving forward our research excellence.
We’re also pleased to offer a range of research funding opportunities in 2025 to help bring your projects to life. These include:
Tri-Faculty Research Funding Schemes
- Conference Support Scheme
- New Staff Establishment Scheme
- Researcher Development Grant
- Open Access Publishing Fund
- HDR Support Scheme
(Applications close on 1 October; funds to be spent by 1 December.)
Early Career Researcher (ECR) Scheme
- Up to $25,000 per project
- Must be led by ECRs with mentoring from senior colleagues
- Applications close 24 October.
Priority Theme Funding and Faculty Discretionary Research Fund
- Supporting strategic and collaborative research aligned with Faculty priorities.
These schemes reflect CSU’s commitment to enabling research excellence and building capability across all career stages. I strongly encourage you to apply and connect with colleagues to shape compelling, high-impact proposals.
As we look ahead, I’d also like to highlight the importance of our upcoming graduation ceremonies. These events mark a transformative milestone in the lives of our students and are a powerful reminder of the purpose behind all that we do. Academic staff are warmly invited to join the Academic Procession and Stage Party, while General and Professional staff play an essential role in supporting these events behind the scenes. Your presence makes a difference—not just for our graduates but also for their families and the communities they serve.
Finally, I want to wish you a restful and restorative Easter break. Whether you are spending time with family, diving into hobbies, or simply enjoying a pause, I hope this period brings you peace and renewal. Thank you for the incredible work you continue to do.
I look forward to all we will accomplish together in the months ahead.
