Robert Crawford

Future Generation Fellow - The University of Melbourne

Graduated in:

2004

Course completed:

Bachelor of Arts majoring in architecture (honours)
PhD

Currently working for:

The University of Melbourne

How long have you been working for this organisation?

4 years

Position title and short job description:

Future Generation Fellow. This position is one of 5 University wide positions that were awarded as part of the Universities inaugural Future Fellowships scheme in 2007. This is a research position that brings with it a mandate to establish inter-disciplinary research projects and address key research questions across disciplines.

Working highlight so far:

A number of grant applications have been successful, funding a range of projects to assess and improve the environmental impacts of buildings.

What are the things you enjoy most about your job?

Flexibility. Variety. Informing and improving  industry practice. A research position opens up opportunities for making significant advancements in existing industry practice and addressing and finding solutions to key problems facing not only the construction industry but society in general. Many opportunities to work with world leading organisations to address their challenges also arise on a regular basis.

An area in which you have needed assistance:

As an early career researcher (someone just starting out in academia), having a mentor is essential.

What do you intend to do in the future?

Continue to work in a research role and also use the knowledge gained from this role to teach students studying architecture, construction and related courses. Also, a book covering much of my work to date is due to be published at the end of the year.

#1 tip for current students studying your course:

Explore all of the possible options and keep an open mind as to the possible career pathways that this discipline presents.