About

RMIT's School of Engineering is renowned for its industry-relevant high quality teaching and research, its globally competitive graduates, and its international linkages.

As Interim Dean of the School of Engineering, it is both an honour and a privilege to guide our talented community of educators, researchers, and students. Over more than two decades at RMIT, I’ve seen how our commitment to collaboration and innovation shapes not only the future of engineering, but also the personal and professional journeys of our students.

I take great pride in leading a School where impact-driven research thrives alongside world-class teaching. Our successful research centres and projects - spanning areas such as renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, digital technologies, and sustainable systems - don’t just advance knowledge, they also enrich our student’s experience. Students learn directly from active researchers, engage with cutting-edge ideas, and participate in projects that connect theory to real-world practice. Coupled with our strong industry partnerships and work-integrated learning opportunities, this ensures our graduates are not only highly skilled but also ready to contribute to the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world.

As a team, our focus is clear: to nurture a supportive and inclusive environment where interdisciplinary partnerships flourish, where every student has the chance to contribute meaningfully, and where our collective endeavours will continue to shape resilient, future-ready communities.

Professor Sujeeva Setunge, Interim Dean, School of Engineering

History

The School of Engineering has a long history at RMIT University. RMIT has taught Engineering disciplines since it was founded in 1887 as the Working Men’s College by Sir Frances Ormond. By 1899, full diploma courses in Engineering were offered. Find out more.

A significant milestone occurred in 1931 with the opening of the Kernot School of Engineering, named in honour of William Charles Kernot and his brother Wilfrid Noyce. This development marked a formal expansion of RMIT's engineering education, reinforcing its commitment to the field. Find out more.

The School of Engineering was formed in 2016, and the current department structure was implemented in April 2024.

Civil Engineering Students Inspecting Rail Loop Air Lock, 1977 (Image credit: RMIT University Archives)

Electrical Engineering Laboratory, 1931 (Image credit: RMIT University Archives)

Engineering Machine Shop, 1960 (Image credit: RMIT University Archives)

People

The School of Engineering is led by a diverse leadership team with representation across the School’s portfolios, departments and operations.

Professor Sujeeva Setunge

Interim Dean

Professor Margaret Jollands

Deputy Dean, Learning & Teaching

Professor Kevin Zhang

Deputy Dean, Research & Innovation

Professor Aonghus McNabola

Deputy Dean, International

Professor Jennifer Palmer

Head of Department, Aerospace Engineering

Professor Kate Fox

Head of Department, Biomedical Engineering

Professor Vikram Garaniya

Head of Department, Chemical & Environmental Engineering

Associate Professor Dilan Robert

Head of Department, Civil & Infrastructure Engineering

Professor Kandeepan Sithamparanathan

Head of Department, Electrical & Electronic Engineering

Professor Stuart Bateman

Head of Department, Mechanical, Manufacturing & Mechatronics Engineering

Mr Paul Large

Senior Manager, School Operations

Ms Katrina McLean

Executive Officer

Ms Caroline DeMack

Executive Assistant

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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