Introducing our new Head of School

It is with great pleasure that we welcome Professor Kristen Pammer as the new Head of School at the Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences. Professor Pammer joins us from the University of Newcastle, where she had served as the Head of their School of Psychological Sciences since 2018.

An accomplished academic leader and researcher with over two decades of experience, Professor Pammer brings a wealth of expertise in psychology and cognitive neuroscience. She earned her PhD in Psychology from the University of Wollongong, and also holds a Graduate Certificate in Higher Education.

Professor Pammer has an impressive scholarly record, having authored 60 peer-reviewed journal articles and two book chapters. Her trailblazing research delves into the brain's mechanisms underlying reading, dyslexia, visual attention and hazard perception in driving scenarios. Her influential work has made tangible impacts, shaping Australia's policies on road safety, driver education programs, literacy instruction approaches, and initiatives for Indigenous education.

Beyond her academic achievements, Professor Pammer has taken on key leadership roles such as Chair of the Heads of Departments and Schools of Psychology Association (HODSPA) and Secretary of the Psychology Foundation of Australia. She also holds appointments as an Adjunct Professor at the Australian National University and as a Research Associate at the University of Waikato in New Zealand.

Professor Pammer has been instrumental in curriculum innovations, teaching advancements and establishing the Higher Education Academy qualification program in Australia. We’re thrilled to have her on board and look forward to seeing where she will take the School.

We’d also like to acknowledge our wonderful outgoing Head of School, Professor Rob Hester.

While the role of Head of School undoubtedly presented innumerable challenges – not least during during the COVID-19 pandemic – Professor Hester navigated them with unwavering poise, consistently making time for everyone and valuing all contributions equally. His collaborative approach, clear communication, approachability, and diplomatic demeanour have been hallmarks of his leadership style.

Professor Hester's impact on the School's growth and success has been profound. Under his stewardship, the School witnessed a remarkable surge in research activity, with publications increasing from 434 in 2020 to an impressive 636 in 2024. Collectively, the School's researchers published over 2,491 papers, garnering more than 24,000 citations; Professor Hester himself contributed significantly to this scholarly output, authoring over 40 articles that received over 300 citations during his time as Head. His vision also paved the way for major initiatives like OpMeg, PX4, the establishment of the Melbourne Centre for Behaviour Change in 2023, and the launch of the Contemplative Studies Centre in November 2023.

Please join us as we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Professor Hester for his steadfast guidance during his four-year tenure, and welcome Professor Pammer to the School.