Professor Attila Brungs named next UNSW Vice-Chancellor

Professor Attila Brungs has been appointed the new Vice-Chancellor of UNSW Sydney today, replacing Professor Ian Jacobs from 31 January 2022.

The appointment is a homecoming moment for Professor Brungs who received the University Medal in Industrial Chemistry as an undergraduate at UNSW before going on to become a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University.

Chancellor David Gonski says Professor Brungs' more than 20 years' experience across industry, government and academia will be invaluable to the University.

"This is an outstanding appointment for UNSW," says Gonski.

"Professor Brungs' inclusive leadership style as well as his commitment to students, to innovation and to partnerships with community and industry, will also perfectly align with our strategy.

"We are not only welcoming our 10th President and Vice-Chancellor; we are welcoming back an eminent alumnus and member of the UNSW family."

Brungs said he was delighted to be taking up what he views as one of the most exciting positions in higher education.

"UNSW is an outstanding University that not only cares deeply about students but equally about the broader impact its teaching, research and engagement has on the whole community," Professor Brungs said.

"UNSW is one of the best placed universities to partner with government and industry to drive the research commercialisation and translation agenda to help forge a bright future as we navigate the post-pandemic world, as well as meeting the skilling revolution Australian society needs.

"This promises to be one of the most challenging periods for higher education in Australia. For 12 years I have been privileged to serve UTS and am now similarly both honoured and excited about harnessing the skills, ideas and experience of the UNSW community students, staff, alumni, industry and community partners, supporters and friends to continue to make a significant and positive impact for Australia and the world."