October 20, 2026
Ian Henderson appointed Executive Dean of Science, Medicine and Health
Professor Henderson joins UOW from the University of Queensland, where he leads the Institute for Molecular Bioscience
The University of Wollongong (UOW) has appointed Professor Ian Henderson as Executive Dean, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health (SMAH), commencing 4 January 2027.
Professor Henderson joins UOW from the University of Queensland, where he is Executive Director of the Institute for Molecular Bioscience, leading more than 500 staff, and a member of UQ's Senior Executive Team. He previously established and led the Institute of Microbiology and Infection at the University of Birmingham as its founding Director and Head of School.
A microbiologist, his research focuses on the bacterial cell surface and how it can be used to treat or prevent infection. He is a Fellow of the American Society for Microbiology, the Australian Society for Microbiology, the Royal Society of Biology and the Queensland Academy of Arts and Sciences, and was recently appointed Co-Chair of a World Health Organization research consortium on bacterial pathogens of pandemic potential. He has also founded the genome sequencing company MicrobesNG.
Provost Professor Ana Deletic said UOW was fortunate to attract a leader of Professor Henderson's standing to the role.
“Professor Henderson brings deep experience in research leadership, multidisciplinary collaboration and partnerships with health services, industry and government, along with a strong record of leading large academic organisations through growth and change. That will be of real value to the Faculty and to UOW,” Professor Deletic said.
Professor Ian Henderson said: “I'm delighted to be joining the University of Wollongong as Executive Dean of Science, Medicine and Health. The Faculty brings the sciences, medicine and health together in a way that creates real opportunities for collaboration, and I'm looking forward to working with colleagues across the Faculty, and with our health, industry and community partners, to build research and education that make a difference in the region and beyond.”
Professor Deletic also thanked Professor Adam Trevitt for his leadership as Acting Executive Dean.
“Professor Trevitt has provided steady support to the Faculty during a period of change, and we are all deeply grateful for his contribution,” she said.
Professor Trevitt will continue as Acting Executive Dean until Professor Henderson commences on 4 January 2027
The Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health brings together the School of Science, the School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, the School of Nursing, the School of Psychology and the Graduate School of Medicine.