Distinguished infrastructure leader and water security specialist Dr Amit Chanan — PhD, Executive Fellow (ANZSOG) — will help turn UNSW engineering expertise into practical solutions for utilities and energy providers across Southeast Asia and Oceania.
UNSW Engineering has appointed Dr Amit Chanan as a Professor of Practice to strengthen the Faculty’s capacity to deliver tangible societal impact.
In this role, he will act as a bridge between researchers and industry, helping connect UNSW’s technical strengths with the needs of decision-makers and communities. This appointment directly advances the UNSW Engineering Faculty Strategy 2030, which focuses on thought leadership and creating positive change for all.
Dr Chanan’s appointment elevates UNSW’s thought leadership in infrastructure and climate resilience. By integrating extensive industry experience with academic rigor, he spearheads high-level discussions on the intersection of engineering, policy, and finance.
His expertise is backed by significant professional accreditations, including his recognition as an Engineering Executive (EngExec) and Fellow of Engineers Australia (FIEAust).
His career includes pivotal leadership roles such as Senior Water Industry Specialist at the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and CEO of the Water Authority of Fiji. Currently, he is the Chief Investment Officer for the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP).
This experience will help UNSW act as a trusted and culturally aware partner in the region, supporting the Faculty’s global engagement goals.
A central focus of the role is advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water) and SDG 7 (Affordable Energy). Dr Chanan collaborates with research centres across the University to translate research into feasible climate resilient projects.
“My focus is on showing how engineering, policy, and finance come together in real life,” Dr Chanan said. “I’m excited to help UNSW create real societal impact by supporting evidence-based decisions and preparing future leaders for the challenges facing Australia and the Asia–Pacific.”
The applied research aspect is exemplified by current Faculty initiatives such as Project Halo, a transdisciplinary program focused on the restoration of mangrove forests and the quantification of blue carbon ecosystems across the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative serves as a primary example of UNSW’s established footprint in delivering environmental and climate resilience projects within Oceania.
Professor Rita Henderson, Deputy Dean (Societal Impact & Translation) at UNSW Engineering, said: "Amit’s deep expertise will be invaluable in helping us translate our world-class research into practical solutions that benefit communities."
Professors of Practice at UNSW are distinguished professionals who integrate research, education, and practice. This appointment ensures UNSW Engineering remains a trusted partner for impactful infrastructure projects that deliver lasting prosperity across the region.