Professor Greg Fox, a leading clinical trialist and Academic Director of the Sydney Southeast Asia Centre (SSEAC), will be stepping down from the leadership of the multidisciplinary initiative from 31 January 2027, following an extraordinary period of achievement and impact.
Professor Fox will take up the role of Head of Macquarie Medical School and Dean of Medicine at Macquarie University, while continuing his important research contributions through a part-time role at the University of Sydney.
“Over the past two and a half years, Greg has led SSEAC with vision, energy and unwavering commitment,” said Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research and Global Engagement) Professor Kathy Belov.
Under his leadership, the Centre has strengthened its position as one of Australia's most significant hubs for Southeast Asia research, engagement and impact. His work has helped deepen the University's connections across the region while advancing our reputation as a trusted partner and thought leader on the critical challenges and opportunities shaping Southeast Asia.
“Greg spearheaded the development of SSEAC's Strategic Plan 2024-2029, establishing a clear and ambitious direction centred on research excellence, regional engagement and real-world impact,” Professor Belov said.
“He has brought together scholars from across the University, created new opportunities for collaboration, and championed a strong sense of community among researchers working on Southeast Asia-related issues.
“The scale of achievement during Greg's tenure has been remarkable. SSEAC researchers have secured more than $43 million in external research funding related to Southeast Asia. The Centre has hosted more than 45 symposia and research events, launched its annual Research Innovation Symposium, established five Grand Challenges aligned with University and regional priorities, and expanded membership to more than 550 academics across the University.”
Over the past two and a half years, Greg has led SSEAC with vision, energy and unwavering commitment.
Professor Kathy Belov
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research and Global Engagement)
As leader of one of the University of Sydney’s flagship multidisciplinary initiatives, Professor Fox has worked closely with every faculty and University School, supported the Vice-Chancellor's engagement across Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, strengthened relationships with senior representatives of state and federal government, and played an important role in the establishment of the University of Sydney Vietnam Institute, the University's first offshore research centre.
His leadership has also helped ensure that SSEAC remains a vibrant intellectual home for scholars and students alike, supporting flagship programs and events while continually identifying new ways to build Australia's understanding of and engagement with the region. The forthcoming Asia Capability Forum is one such example of Professor Fox’s determination to create lasting platforms for dialogue, partnership and impact.
While his principal leadership responsibilities will shift to Macquarie, Professor Fox will retain a part-time research role in the University of Sydney’s Faculty of Medicine and Health, continuing his clinical research in Australia and Southeast Asia.
“While SSEAC will miss Greg's wisdom, enthusiasm and collegial spirit, we are delighted that he has been offered this significant leadership opportunity. His appointment to lead Macquarie Medical School is a testament to the tremendous respect he has earned across higher education and the broader community,” Professor Belov added.
“Please join me in thanking Greg for his outstanding service, leadership and friendship. We are deeply grateful for everything he has contributed to SSEAC, the University and our engagement with Southeast Asia. We wish Greg every success as he begins this exciting new chapter and look forward to continuing our collaboration in the years ahead. Thank you, Greg, for leaving SSEAC stronger, more connected and more ambitious than ever. Your impact will be felt for many years to come.”