Murdoch University has appointed internationally renowned research and academic leader Rikki Kersten as its new executive director of the Asia Research Centre (ARC).

The appointment signals the beginning of a major re-investment in the Centre with at least three new senior appointments to be made in the near future.

Professor Kersten is a world-renowned expert in Japanese history, politics and security policy. At Murdoch, she has also served as the Dean of the School of Arts and the Interim Pro Vice Chancellor of the College of Arts, Business, Law and Social Sciences.

For more than two decades the ARC has been an international leader in the study of East and South East Asia, undertaking an interdisciplinary approach to examine a range of social, political, historical, environmental and economic forces and developments within the region.

Vast experience

Deputy Vice Chancellor Research and Innovation David Morrison said, under Professor Kersten’s leadership, the University would be embarking on a major extension of its Asia related academic activity, policy development and research.

“With her vast experience and research scholarship, I am delighted to have Rikki on board as our new ARC leader,” Professor Morrison said.

“I am very excited to see how the Centre will develop under her leadership. Our research into social and scientific challenges is underpinned by a deep understanding of politics, governance and international affairs. I have no doubt the ARC will continue to help us translate research outcomes into impact.”

Professor Morrison also thanked previous ARC Executive Director Professor Garry Rodan for his research leadership across three decades.

“His contribution has been significant and memorable. In the time that I have come to know the Asia Research Centre it has always been a model of outstanding collegiality and a beacon of academic excellence,” Professor Morrison said.

Professor Kersten will be consulting with ARC stakeholders including research Fellows and postgraduates, and the academic leaders of the University’s research institutes, to develop an ambitious, multidisciplinary research program for a revitalised ARC.