Professor Helen Chenery

Professor Helen Chenery is a dynamic and experienced leader, educator, and researcher with a distinguished career spanning the higher education and health sectors. An Honorary Professor at both The University of Queensland and Bond University, Helen has held several senior leadership roles, including Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine at Bond University, where she was instrumental in shaping national health system reform and fostering innovation in the sector.

Her early career as a speech pathologist sparked a lifelong passion for understanding the neuroscience of language, leading to groundbreaking work in areas such as dementia care, neurobionics, and digital health technologies. She has led significant research into acquired language impairments resulting from brain damage and the impact of deep brain stimulation on language and cognition. As a Chief Investigator on the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence, ‘The Dynamics of Language’, Professor Chenery continues to drive cutting-edge research and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in her field.

A strong advocate for gender equality, Professor Chenery has been at the forefront of initiatives to address the underrepresentation of women in science, technology, engineering, maths, and medicine (STEMM). She is passionate about creating more inclusive and equal workplaces and has played a key role in Bond University’s commitment to gender equity, particularly through her involvement in the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) project.

Helen’s work spans leadership in academic and research settings, governance, and policy reform, with a focus on improving the health workforce and promoting interprofessional education and practice. She has chaired numerous national and international panels on diversity, gender equality, and the future of healthcare. Professor Chenery’s contributions have had a profound impact on both the academic world and the healthcare industry, with her research published widely in the fields of speech pathology, neurobiology, and health workforce innovation.

From humble beginnings in Bundaberg, Helen's journey from a small-town girl with a love for both literature and science to a renowned leader in the health and academic fields is a testament to her vision, drive, and commitment to making a difference.