Professor David Bissell elected Fellow of Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia

Professor David Bissell, urban mobility expert and geographer for the Faculty of Science has been elected as a Fellow of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia.

Professor Bissell has advanced the understanding of complex, transformative interactions between people and places. His research efforts include investigating the consequences of the work-from-home revolution for travel, human relationships, and the future development of cities.

“We’re facing seismic social, economic, and environmental shifts, so we urgently need better understanding of the drivers and impacts of these changes,” Professor Bissell said.

“For example, my colleagues and I are investigating the consequences of the work-from-home revolution. How is this changing our homes, neighbourhoods, and cities? How does this affect travel and human relationships, and how should we shape our cities in future?

“I intend to use my Fellowship to champion the work of geographers, amplifying their voices to foster the progressive social, cultural and environmental actions that Australians desperately need.”

Professor Bissell said that academics in the School of Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences are working at the leading edge of some of the biggest challenges of our time. “I’m thrilled to be elected as a Fellow by the Academy, although these accolades feel slightly awkward because impactful research is always a collective effort,” Professor Bissell said. “My colleagues and students are stars who constantly inspire me to keep learning.”

The Academy of Social Sciences in Australia brings together the best and brightest social science minds from universities, research institutes and policy agencies across the country to influence and shape government decision-making to improve the lives of people and society.