Works closely with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global, Culture and Engagement) to lead the University's international strategy and relationships within India. Responsibilities include partnering with government, industry, and the education sector, as well as implementing the India engagement plan across all Faculties and Chancellery.
Professor Muthupandian Ashokkumar is a Physical Chemist specialising in Ultrasonics and Sonochemistry, with over 30 years of experience in the field. Since joining the University of Melbourne in 1996, he has held various leadership positions and made significant contributions to the institution's global engagement, particularly in India.
As the Director of the Melbourne Global Centre in Delhi, Professor Ashokkumar works closely with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global, Culture and Engagement) to lead the University's international strategy and relationships within India. His responsibilities include partnering with government, industry, and the education sector, as well as implementing the India engagement plan across all Faculties and Chancellery.
Professor Ashokkumar's expertise extends beyond academia. He has made substantial contributions to the Materials, Food, and Dairy industries through his research in Ultrasonics and Sonochemistry. His work has attracted approximately AUD$15 million in research grants, including several industry projects. As a testament to his scientific prowess, he is the Editor-in-Chief of Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, a prestigious journal with an impact factor of 9.7, and has published around 559 refereed papers with an H-Index of 94.
Throughout his career at the University of Melbourne, Professor Ashokkumar has held several key positions, including Acting Director and CEO of the Australia India Institute, Head of School of Chemistry, and Associate Dean International in the Faculty of Science. In 2018, he was appointed to the institution-wide role of Assistant Deputy Vice-Chancellor International (India), where he developed the University's India Engagement Strategy 2020–2024.
Professor Ashokkumar has been instrumental in fostering international collaborations and educational initiatives. He played a crucial role in developing the Melbourne India Postgraduate Academy and establishing the BSc Blended programs with partner institutions across India. He also led the implementation of the BSc Dual Degree program and the Schools Engagement Program, which supports underrepresented secondary school students in India through career guidance and future planning.
In addition to his role as Director of the Melbourne Global Centre in Delhi, Professor Ashokkumar holds the position of Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor International (South Asia and Middle East) for the University of Melbourne. His extensive experience, coupled with his deep understanding of both academic and cultural landscapes, continues to drive the University's engagement and impact in the region.