Monash University has announced the appointment of international respected sociologist Professor Zlatko Skribis to lead the university’s research training agenda, which includes a revamped PhD program.

Professor Skribis takes up the reins as the first cohort of students embark on the new Monash PhD program.

Previously the Dean of The University of Queensland’s Graduate School, Professor Skrbis is the current Convenor of the Deans and Directors of Graduate Studies in Australia.

Monash Provost and Senior Vice-President, Professor Edwina Cornish, welcomed Professor Skrbis to the University.

"Zlatko has an impressive academic background and an excellent understanding of graduate research matters. I have every confidence that he will do an outstanding job of guiding the development of many of our future researchers," Professor Cornish said.

In his new role, Professor Skrbis aims to emphasise the connection between research and research training at Monash and encourage innovation in these areas.

“We need to keep a step ahead of other universities in the way we think and conceive research and research training initiatives,” Professor Skrbis said.

“We must also have a relentless emphasis on the recruitment of quality research students as they are crucial to Monash’s success as world-leading, research intensive university."