Sue Harrison

Professor Sue Harrison is the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Architecture, and Information Technology (EAIT) at the University of Queensland. She previously served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Internationalisation) at the University of Cape Town, focusing on research innovation and social responsiveness. Her academic career spans 30 years in bioprocess engineering, with a focus on circular economy applications, green technologies, and bioenvironmental systems. Her research integrates process engineering and microbiology to develop resilient bioprocesses and novel bioproducts, particularly in waste valorization and algal biotechnology.

Her work addresses global challenges through IDTD (Integrated Design and Technology Development) research, targeting sustainable approaches to mineral and water-sensitive systems. Key research areas include microbial dynamics in bioleaching, biomineral engineering, and bioenvironmental systems. She has contributed to over 200 publications, including book chapters and journal articles on topics like bioleaching reactor design, microbial adaptation, and techno-economic analysis of bioproducts.

Professor Harrison leads initiatives in education and research strategy at UQ, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and socially responsible innovation. She has advised on mine waste valorisation, coal processing wastes, and sustainable industrial practices. Her work bridges academic leadership with applied research, fostering transformative solutions in engineering and environmental science.