Professor Paulo de Souza
Professor de Souza joined ECU in early 2024 and has since strengthened the University's research capability, elevated the national profile of the School of Engineering and expanded ECU's global partnerships. He has played a key role in forging new collaborations with NASA, like the IGNIS project, and the Fraunhofer research network, while deepening engagement with Western Australian and national industry partners to support research translation, innovation and student opportunity.
ECU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Clare Pollock, said Professor de Souza brings a compelling vision for the next phase of the University's research development.
"Professor de Souza has demonstrated strong leadership since joining ECU, building partnerships that connect our research to industry, government and community priorities," Professor Pollock said.
"He is deeply committed to building areas of competitive strength and nurturing emerging research talent. His leadership will further position ECU to contribute solutions to major global challenges across space, environmental sustainability, digital systems, and health."
Professor de Souza's leadership has supported growth in research outputs, increased visibility in national rankings and new industry pathways for student internships and work-integrated learning (WIL) programs.
He's also a committed advocate for student access, running 70 kilometres to raise more than $16,000 for scholarships through Herdy's Frontyard Ultra Marathon back in March.
Professor de Souza said he looks forward to leading ECU's research agenda as the University prepares to open its new ECU City Campus in February next year.
"We are entering an exciting chapter that brings together creativity, technology and industry partnerships in the heart of Perth. I'm immensely proud to lead the support of our researchers, students and industry partners as we drive innovation that benefits our State, Australia and beyond," he said.
With expertise spanning space science, environmental sustainability and digital innovation, Professor de Souza has held senior roles at CSIRO and Griffith University, contributing to internationally recognised discoveries through NASA's Mars Exploration Program and receiving multiple NASA Achievement Awards.
Professor de Souza will commence as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) in January 2026.
