
Always positive, enthusiastic, and supportive.
Inspires students to achieve their best.
Brings real-world insights to the classroom.
Encourages students to ask questions.
Brings real-world examples to learning.
Professor Vishnu Pareek is the Dean of Engineering in the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Curtin University, where he also holds the position of John Curtin Distinguished Professor in Chemical Engineering since 2020. He previously served as Head of the WA School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Head of the School of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, and Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering at Curtin University. Pareek earned his BE (Hons) in Chemical Engineering from Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur, MTech in Chemical Engineering from IIT Delhi, and PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of New South Wales, all with high distinctions. His academic career at Curtin began as a Lecturer in the Department of Chemical Engineering. In 2019, he was awarded the title of John Curtin Distinguished Professor, the university's highest honor for excellence in research and academic leadership. He currently serves as President of the Australian Council of Engineering Deans.
Pareek's research specializations encompass process systems engineering, computational modelling of multiphase reactors, fluid flow dynamics, droplet-particle interactions, biomass pyrolysis and conversion, heterogeneous photocatalysis, energy systems, thermodynamics, and pathways to net zero emissions. He has co-directed the Centre of Process Systems Computations and contributed to innovations such as the SpiroPak technology for oil and gas applications. Key publications include the co-edited book 'The World of Energy: Engine of Life' (Springer, 2020), which explores energy principles and sustainability; 'Biomass pyrolysis—a review of modelling, process parameters and catalytic studies' (Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2015); 'Effect of Inlet Boundary Conditions on Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulations of a Bubbly Column' (Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 2012); and numerous papers on hydrodynamics in fluid catalytic cracking strippers and light scattering in photocatalytic reactors. His work has advanced computational tools for refinery performance optimization and process industry productivity. Pareek has led significant research teams and secured funding for projects enhancing energy transition technologies.
