Professor Sujeeva Setunge is a highly productive researcher and a research leader focussed on creating impact through translation of fundamental and applied research.

Sujeeva leads the research portfolio of STEM college at RMIT as Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor (ADVC) for Research and Innovation. Prior to this appointment she had been the Deputy Dean (Research) in Engineering (2016-2020), Head of Civil Engineering (2012-2016) and the Head of Environmental Engineering (2009-2011) at RMIT. As the ADVC R&I in STEM college at RMIT Sujeeva has developed a bold research strategy for the college which is the largest in RMIT with around 26,000 students, 1000 academic staff and 18 disciplines across four schools. She is an influential research leader who can engage staff and deliver the outcomes through a collegial and consultative approach. Her strength is in engaging industry in academic research to deliver value and mutual benefits.

Research and Innovation and especially developing cross disciplinary research to address large complex problems is one of Sujeeva’s strengths and she has successfully led large multisector, multi-institutional initiatives. A highlight is winning and leading the $21 m ARC Industrial Transformation Research Hub for Transformation of Reclaimed Resources to Engineered Materials and Solutions for a circular Economy (TREMS) awarded in 2020, in partnership with 9 Australian and 4 international academic institutions and 33 industry partners.

Industry experience:
Sujeeva is a fellow of Engineers Australia and a chartered professional engineer (CPEng). Whilst she has been employed in academia for the past 30 years, she has led over 20 industry-sponsored projects delivering value to multiple sectors. The asset management platform developed by Sujeeva entitled CAMS is currently implemented by more than 30 infrastructure authorities and local councils.

Awards:
2018
Vice chancellor’s award for research impact, RMIT University
Recognising research in partnership with local councils, developing and deploying the Council Asset Management System (CAMS). CAMS has informed council asset management across Victoria, enhancing community services, reducing costs and more efficiently allocating limited council resources.

2005
National Award for Innovation in Teaching Applied Mechanics
Awarded triennially by the National Committee for Applied Mechanics, Engineers Australia

Facilities Management Australia, National Excellence Award - Team award for CAMS software with RMIT property services