Vale Distinguished Professor Adrian Mouritz
Recognised as world-leading researcher, teacher and friend, Distinguished Professor Adrian Mouritz passed away on Saturday 4 March.
His contribution to RMIT, our students, staff, alumni and the communities that RMIT serves, is just part of a deep legacy in his field and beyond.
Mouritz was Dean School of Engineering since its foundation in 2016 and was particularly proud of the role he played in its establishment, bringing together three schools, as well as the focus the school had on its teaching quality and innovation.
He achieved significant improvements in research performance as well as building stronger connections to industry and other external bodies. The impact of his leadership in Engineering has been evidenced by a significant uplift in rankings.
Mouritz was an avid and celebrated researcher, undertaking both fundamental and applied research into fibre reinforced polymer composites. The aerospace, maritime and automotive industries both in Australia and overseas will all mourn him – not only for his outstanding research, but for his leadership and innovation, across the university sector, government, defence and industry.
He was passionate about international engagement, and under his leadership spearheaded the delivery of offshore Aviation and Engineering programs across the world particularly in Southeast Asia.
Prior to his role as Dean, he held numerous academic leadership roles at RMIT including the Discipline Director for Aerospace and Aviation. He remained an active member of RMIT until very recently and was a well-respected colleague with a reputation for supporting career progression, growth and creating a high-performing work environment.
An inspiring teacher and mentor, Mourtiz took great pride in supervising PhD students throughout his tenure. He was also proud of recruiting a large number of early career researchers during his time and always had a strong focus on improving the student experience and introduced a number of initiatives such as the Common Year 1 BEng (Hons) program.
RMIT will remember and honour Distinguised Professor Adrian Mouritz’s contribution, but no tribute can replace the person who will be so greatly missed.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues.
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 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.