Strengthening Indigenous leadership in engineering

Associate Dean Indigenous and Associate Professor Structural Engineering, Shannon Kilmartin-Lynch

Monash Engineering thanks Professor Christopher Lawrence as he concludes his term as Associate Dean (Indigenous) with the faculty. During his tenure, he supported Indigenous student initiatives, contributed to equity efforts across the faculty, and helped establish national and international partnerships.

One of his most significant contributions was establishing the National Indigenous Space Academy (NISA), which connects Indigenous students with world-class opportunities in aerospace. His efforts forged a vital link with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, culminating in the appointment of Lieutenant General Larry James (Ret.) as Monash’s Distinguished Professor of Space Innovation.

While Chris will be missed within Engineering, his role continues with the Faculty of Information Technology where his passion for Indigenous advancement will remain a guiding force.

We are delighted to announce Associate Professor Shannon Kilmartin-Lynch is incoming Associate Dean (Indigenous) to Monash Engineering. A proud Yowong-Illam-Baluk and Natarrak-Baluk man belonging to the Taungurung people, Shannon brings deep cultural knowledge and academic expertise to the role.

A civil engineer specialising in sustainable construction, he sees engineering as a form of caring for Country. “There are many different aspects in civil engineering that you can look at. For me, looking at sustainability, it’s a different way that I can care for Country myself. It’s taking out waste streams, it’s minimising CO2 outputs, it’s efforts to clean up different litter waste that’s on Country…every little step makes a difference,” he says.

In addition to his research endeavours, Associate Professor Kilmartin-Lynch possesses a unique skill set and a wealth of experience in policy development and implementation. He is dedicated to elevating Indigenous STEM knowledge and showcasing the vast research potential within Indigenous communities.

We asked him to share his thoughts about Monash University's commitment to Indigenous culture, knowledge and education. Shannon says, "From my perspective, Monash is taking meaningful steps toward embedding reconciliation into the heart of the University’s culture…Importantly, these efforts are grounded in partnership with the community and led by the voices of Indigenous staff and students."

As the Faculty enters this new chapter, we reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation, inclusion, and the pursuit of Indigenous educational excellence. With Shannon’s leadership and Chris’s ongoing contribution across Monash, the future of Indigenous representation in STEM continues to grow stronger.

For his research “Utilising Traditional knowledges to improve sustainability of concrete,” Associate Professor Kilmartin-Lynch was joint winner of The Australian Academy of Science Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scientist Award 2025.Click here for details.

Learn more about NISA here.

Read more about Monash University’s commitment to Indigenous Engagement here.