Based at CQUni’s Bundaberg campus, School of Engineering and Technology Lecturer Ramadas Narayanan has a very strong passion not just for the environment and conducting research on innovative technologies to protect it, but also in the way he delivers teaching to his students. For his efforts, Recently was recently awarded a Vice-Chancellor’s award for Teaching and Learning.
What was a recent highlight of your life?
Recently, I was notified that I have been selected for the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Good Practice in Teaching and Learning. I also recently learned that my Scholarship of Learning and Teaching grant application titled ‘Implementation of a new simulation tool to enhance student learning experience in the Engineering Dynamics course’ has received conditional approval with total funding available of $21,252.
What is the best thing about CQUni?
CQUniversity’s innovative approach and effective use of modern technologies, extensive campus footprint, and the way it provides the opportunity for higher education for many people who might not otherwise have received it. In addition, having worked in many university programs, I have found that, unlike other universities, CQUniversity has placed great emphasis on realistic and meaningful student support.
What do you love most about your role?
In my position as lecturer, I have equal weight given to teaching and research roles. I am passionate about both these areas and this balance provides me with opportunities to make some headway in my research on sustainable energy engineering. Recently, the CSIRO Energy Centre has approached me to partner in a potential project to investigate a new technology in the subtropical climate of Queensland. A similar project was delivered in Victoria which uses a prototype of a new hybrid solar thermal system to provide high efficiency, low carbon heating and cooling. This is something that I am excited about.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
We have recently heard news that the level of global CO2 concentration in the atmosphere has passed 400 parts per million (ppm). Already we are seeing the deadly effects of climate change in the form of rising seas, monster storms, wildfires and extreme weather of all kinds. The safe level of CO2 in the atmosphere is 350 ppm. I will do everything I can to reduce the level of emissions and to improve the planet’s sustainability through the adoption of clean and green technologies.
What is a motto or phrase that you live by?
“If you believe, you can achieve” – that’s my motto!
Who is the most famous person you’ve ever met?
Darren Lehmann: Coach of the Australian cricket team. I met him about a month ago on a flight returning from attending the ECR program in Adelaide.
The weekend is free – what would you do?
Backyard cricket and netball with my two daughters and also the regular Sunday morning tennis with friends.
