Find the freedom to think differently - Southern Cross University

Find the freedom to think differently: Innovation in action at Southern Cross University

At SCU, innovation isn't just encouraged – it's embedded in our DNA. Our researchers are shaping their fields in remarkable ways: Dr Georgina Dimopoulos is transforming family law practices, Dr Mandy Beasley is revolutionising laboratory operations, and Professor Renaud Joannes-Boyau is uncovering the secrets of humanity’s ancient past. At SCU, we empower our people to think differently – and the results speak for themselves.

a man looking up — Professor Renaud Joannes-Boyau

A place to make a difference

When Professor Renaud Joannes-Boyau joined Southern Cross University as a Lecturer in 2010, he saw the potential to build something truly unique. Today, as Director of High Degree Research, he leads one of only six geo-archaeological labs in the world that specialise in dating human remains.

“I just saw the potential of what SCU could be,” says Professor Renaud. “I thought, ‘I’ll be able to do more at a university this size.’ I could see SCU was transforming, and I wanted to be part of that transformation.”

Most recently, Professor Renaud and his team’s innovative approaches led them to co-develop a new technique for dating rock art using cave paintings in Indonesia. The ensuing paper, published in 2024, dated the oldest known rock art in the world to more than 50,000 years old – a discovery that rewrote our understanding of human creativity and culture.

But for Professor Renaud, Southern Cross’s real advantage isn't just in the technical breakthroughs – it's in the freedom to pursue bold ideas.

"At Southern Cross, I've never felt restricted in my research or unable to express my views," he says. "If you want to shine, the university gives you the tools to shine.”

Today, as Director of Higher Degree Research in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, he's helping nurture the next generation of innovative thinkers – researchers who aren't afraid to challenge conventional wisdom and develop new approaches to understanding our world.

Leading change from the lab

When it comes to thinking differently, Dr Mandy Beasley is proof that innovation can emerge from unexpected places. As Technical and Laboratory Team Lead at our National Marine Science Centre, she oversees a diverse team spanning two campuses, managing everything from laboratory preparations to a fleet of research vessels.

While her role might seem highly technical and process-driven, Dr Mandy has found it's the perfect space to bring diverse perspectives, ideas and solutions to drive meaningful change.

"No day is ever the same,” says Dr Mandy, “which is probably one of the most enjoyable things about our jobs in a technical services space.”

This unpredictability has become a catalyst for innovation. Since taking on her leadership role, Dr Mandy has spearheaded major improvements in faculty operations, particularly in the management of the university's research vessels.

Her commitment to questioning established processes and finding better solutions recently earned her team a faculty service award for making a difference.

“It's really important in our roles that we're thinking outside the box. Just because we've done something the same way for years doesn't mean it's the right way to do it. That's why we consult with everyone who does the work or is affected by it - they're the ones who can really tell us where improvements are needed.”

A staff member outside GC Campus — Associate Professor Georgina Dimopoulos

Breaking new ground

As Associate Professor of Law at Southern Cross University, Dr Georgina Dimopoulos is reshaping how children's voices are heard in the family law system. Her groundbreaking research and teaching approaches exemplify how our people are supported to embrace problems and own the challenge to find better ways.

“For a long time, we’ve focused on children needing shielding and protection in a family law and/or family violence context. In our view, this has inadvertently led to a paternalistic approach where children have been invisible and silenced. Instead, we believe children should have the right to participate in decision making about their lives.”

Dr Georgina’s willingness to pioneer new approaches has led to significant changes in how research with young people is conducted. Rather than being constrained by traditional methods, Georgina has developed innovative solutions that put young people's needs first.

At Southern Cross University, Dr Georgina has found an environment that encourages fresh thinking and supports turning bold ideas into action.

"It’s about having the autonomy to research in areas I'm passionate about, but then also to teach in those areas - that’s the difference at SCU."

This freedom to pursue innovative work drives Dr Georgina's mission to create lasting change.

"I might be just one academic at one university, but if I can get the message across to people who can change the law, who can make the decisions, then that's what's going to change children and young people's lives for the better."

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Find your opportunity at Southern Cross University