Professor Susan Harrison has opened up pathways to new mineral processing practices, integrating microbiology with chemical engineering to address sustainable resource management challenges. 

Her collaborative approach bridges fundamental research with industry to tackle real-world challenges. Her research underpins solutions implemented in Australia and around the world for mineral resource extraction, mine waste remediation, water treatment and circular bioeconomies – in particular, transforming mine waste into economic assets.

Beyond technical innovation, Harrison combines outstanding leadership, strategic clarity and research excellence through her roles as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research & Innovation and former Executive Dean at University of Queensland and former Deputy Vice-Chancellor at University of Cape Town. Elected to the National Academy of Engineers (US) and South African Academy of Engineers, she ranks among the top 20 globally in mining and metallurgy. 

Professor Susan Harrison is an internationally acclaimed bioprocess engineer who integrates microbiology with chemical engineering to address sustainable resource management challenges. As Executive Dean at University of Queensland and former DVC at University of Cape Town, she combines exceptional leadership with research excellence. Her groundbreaking work in biohydrometallurgy, water treatment, and waste valorization has transformed mineral processing and sustainable development approaches. Elected to the National Academy of Engineers (USA) and South African Academy of Engineers, she ranks among the top 20 globally in Mining and Metallurgy. Harrison has supervised 151 postgraduate students and published over 270 papers. She established the Centre for Bioprocess Engineering Research and Future Water institute, building significant research capacity. Her collaborative approach bridges fundamental research with industry applications, demonstrating how innovation can address sustainability challenges while developing human capital.