The University of Waikato is delighted to welcome coastal scientist Professor Paul Kench as the new Pro Vice-Chancellor of Te Wānanga Pūtaiao Division of STEM.
He joins Waikato from the National University of Singapore where he was Professor of Tropical Coastal Change.
Pro Vice-Chancellor of Te Wānanga Pūtaiao the Division of STEM Professor Paul Kench
Professor Kench is a leading authority in coastal and marine science known for his influential research on coral reefs, island systems and coastal change.
His work has contributed to global understanding of the physical stability of small island nations, particularly in the Pacific, informing adaptation policies at national and regional levels.
These insights have advanced scientific knowledge of how coral reef islands evolve and respond to climate variability and sea-level rise, helping to reshape international perspectives on their future over the coming decades.
Professor Kench holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Auckland, gained his PhD at the University of New South Wales, and spent several years at the University of Waikato as a Senior Research Fellow.
He has held academic positions at institutions in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Singapore.
Across his career, Professor Kench has taken on a range of leadership, advisory, and governance roles, including serving as Dean of Science at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver and contributing to the Canadian Council of Deans of Science. He also spent six years as Head of the University of Auckland’s School of Environment.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Professor Gary Wilson and Pro Vice-Chancellor of STEM Professor Paul Kench
Professor Kench also led Phase 1 of the ‘Living at the Edge’ coastal hazards research theme of the Resilience to Natures Challenges National Science Challenge.
“I’m delighted to be returning to the University of Waikato as Pro Vice Chancellor to lead the Division of STEM, which has a strong reputation for excellence. I look forward to collaborating with colleagues to build on its strong foundations to enhance research, support student success, and deliver real-world outcomes.”
Vice-Chancellor Professor Neil Quigley says he is delighted to appoint Professor Kench as Pro Vice-Chancellor, a scholar with international standing and extensive experience in academic leadership.
Professor Kench began his role on 1 April.
