UniSQ appoints Professor Pauline Calleja to lead School of Nursing and Midwifery

The University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) has appointed internationally recognised nursing academic and leader Professor Pauline Calleja as Head of School and Dean (Nursing and Midwifery).

Professor Calleja commenced in the role today (Monday 22 June), bringing more than two decades of senior academic, clinical and executive leadership experience across Australia and internationally.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Research) Professor John Bell said Professor Calleja’s appointment marked an important next step for the School.

“We are excited for Pauline to lead the School of Nursing and Midwifery through the next phase of its growth and build on its strong foundations,” Professor Bell said.

“She is an outstanding leader with a strong track record in nursing and midwifery education, research and workforce development.

“Her experience across regional, rural and global health contexts aligns strongly with UniSQ’s commitment to delivering impact for communities.”

Professor Calleja joins UniSQ from the Higher Colleges of Technology in Abu Dhabi, where she served as Executive Dean of Healthcare Sciences. Prior to this, she was Dean of the College of Healthcare Sciences at James Cook University in Townsville.

Her leadership experience also includes senior roles with CQUniversity and Griffith University, complemented by clinical practice as a rural and remote Director of Nursing reliever in regional Queensland.

An internationally recognised researcher, Professor Calleja’s work focuses on rural and remote health workforce development, nursing education innovation, and translating evidence into practice and policy.

She has secured more than $2.1 million in research and consultancy funding and authored more than 45 peer-reviewed publications, books, and book chapters.

Professor Bell acknowledged the contribution of Interim Head of School Professor Leah East for her leadership over the past nine months.

“I sincerely thank Leah for her outstanding contribution and dedication to the School over the past nine months,” he said.

“Her leadership has ensured strong continuity and momentum, and we are grateful for the impact she has made.”

As Head of School and Dean (Nursing and Midwifery), Professor Calleja will lead the School of Nursing and Midwifery in advancing excellence across teaching, research, clinical education, and community engagement.