University of Melbourne’s pioneering vice-chancellor Emma Johnston dies aged 52 | Australia news

A transformative science researcher and the first woman to head one of Australia’s top universities has died.

University of Melbourne vice-chancellor Emma Johnston dies due to complications from cancer announced On Monday.

He was 52 years old.

In February 2025, Johnston became the first woman to hold the senior role at the 172-year-old institution.

In addition to his undergraduate and graduate degrees, he also completed his doctorate in marine ecology at the same university.

Johnston was an expert on the ecological impacts of human activities on marine ecosystems and was the lead author of Australia’s most recent State of the Environment report.

His extensive research profile includes writing 185 peer-reviewed journal articles and supervising more than 35 students.

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But he was also remembered as an effective communicator who was devoted to his students.

His family said the love and respect for Johnston and his work has greatly eased their heartbreak.

“We know that he touched many lives and that his legacy will continue through the work of his many students, colleagues and mentees,” a family spokesman said.

The institution’s chancellor, Jane Hansen, said Johnston had made a meaningful contribution despite his very short tenure at the University of Melbourne.

“Professor Johnston has brought a significant tone of optimism and energy to our university through his insight, experience and, most importantly, his belief in everyone who is part of this community,” he said.

“He had an unwavering commitment to our students. Whether it was cost of living pressures, scholarships, teaching and research, he did everything he could to ensure our students were best equipped to achieve their goals.

“Most importantly, he loved spending time with them to hear their stories. They were his inspiration.”

Hansen said Johnston’s death was a loss not only to the university, higher education sector, research and science sectors, but also to the nation.

Johnston was a director of the CSIRO and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, a director of the Ian Potter Foundation and a former chairman of Science and Technology Australia.

The world’s leading marine biologist was awarded the rank of officer in Australia in 2018 for distinguished service to higher education, particularly marine ecology, ecotoxicology and research institutes.

He was elected a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science in 2022.

Science and Technology Australia chief executive Jas Chambers said Johnston had set an example that would inspire many others to continue his studies by describing his ability to transform complex information into something beautiful, engaging and entertaining.

“Emma’s influence and impact will be felt for years to come. She leaves a wonderful legacy,” Chambers said.

“He was a rare and complete package, defined by his commitment to meaningful human connection and healing our planet.”

Education minister Jason Clare said he was shocked and saddened to hear of Johnston’s death and described him as a “true reformer” in a social media post.

The university will later commemorate Johnston and Michael Wesley will continue as vice-chancellor.