Mark Stewart

Professor Mark Stewart is an Honorary Professor at the School of Engineering, University of Newcastle, with over 30 years of experience in probabilistic risk and vulnerability assessments for infrastructure and security systems. His work spans terrorism, climate change, and natural hazards, focusing on cost-benefit analysis and policy optimization.

• Current Roles: Director of the Centre for Infrastructure Performance and Reliability (2007–present), Editor-in-Chief of Structural Safety (2020–present), and member of the ARC College of Experts (2019–2021).
• Education: BE (Hons) in Civil Engineering (Monash University, 1984), PhD in Structural Engineering (University of Newcastle, 1988).

Stewart’s research centers on risk assessment and cost-effectiveness of measures against extreme events. He has led major projects like the $3.5M CSIRO CAEx Cluster (2012–2016), developing models for climate adaptation of infrastructure. His work challenges conventional perceptions of terrorism and climate risks, advocating for evidence-based policy and resource allocation.

Scientific Awards include Fellowships from the Royal Society of NSW (2021), Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering (2020), and the Japan Concrete Institute Award (2012). He has authored over 500 papers, five seminal books, and received continuous ARC funding since 2004.

Stewart’s public policy impact is notable, with research featured in Playboy Magazine, CNN, and collaborations with political scientist John Mueller. His work emphasizes transparency in risk assessment, urging policymakers to prioritize cost-effective solutions over fear-driven expenditures.