Greg Cook , currently the head of the School of Biomedical Sciences at the Queensland University of Technology, has been appointed deputy vice chancellor for research and innovation at the University of Otago (Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka).
Cook will take on his new duties at the end of the academic year. The appointment marks a return to the New Zealand institution for the distinguished professor, who had been a professor at the University of Otago from November 1997 to March 2024.
In 2019, Cook was selected as one of the seven inaugural Sesquicentennial Distinguished Chairs as part of the university’s 150th anniversary celebration. From 2019 to 2024, he also served as the head of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology.
He has received several awards from the University of Otago, including the Commercialisation Researcher Award in 2023 and the Distinguished Research Medal, the university’s highest distinction, in 2014.
“It is a privilege to lead Otago’s outstanding research community as we shape the future of discovery, impact, and excellence together. I know that we have the people, the culture, and the commitment to research excellence needed to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead.
“I am particularly eager to engage with our Māori researchers and communities and to help advance Otago’s growing international leadership at the interface of Indigenous and Western knowledge systems.”
Greg Cook
In his new role, Cook will focus on engaging more deeply with the private sector and Otago’s network of alumni. He will also look to advance applied and commercial research, particularly at local and international levels, and drive more entrepreneurship activities.
Cook succeeds Prof Richard Blaikie, who retired in May 2025 after 14 years in the role.