Professor Alan Rowan

Professor Alan Rowan is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation) at the University of Wollongong, appointed following an extensive international search. A globally respected research leader, Professor Rowan brings a distinguished record of scientific excellence, strategic leadership and a deep commitment to building inclusive, high-performing research cultures.

Professor Rowan comes from the University of Queensland, where he led the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), one of Australia’s premier interdisciplinary research institutes. In this role, he played a significant part in advancing UQ’s broader research strategy, fostering global partnerships and driving innovation with real-world impact.

Professor Rowan is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, and an Australian Research Council Laureate Fellow. His career reflects sustained excellence in research leadership, capability building and attracting major investment to support ambitious, collaborative research agendas.

Central to Professor Rowan’s leadership philosophy is the belief that outstanding research begins with people. He is widely recognised for his commitment to mentorship, equity and collaboration, and for creating environments where great ideas and diverse teams can thrive.

As a member of the University Executive, Professor Rowan will play a key role in delivering UOW’s Strategy 2030 and Vision 2035, strengthening the University’s global research profile, driving innovation, and ensuring UOW’s research delivers meaningful impact for communities locally and globally.