Professor Brian Cox honoured at Swinburne

World renowned scientist Professor Brian Cox CBE FRS has been awarded an honorary Doctor of Science by Swinburne University of Technology in recognition of his significant contribution as a global leader in communicating the world of astronomy, physics and astrophysics.

Professor Cox was presented with his honorary doctorate by Swinburne Chancellor Professor John Pollaers and Swinburne Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Pascale Quester in October.  

In a recorded message Professor Cox urged Swinburne's 2022 graduands to carry with them the values of Swinburne.

"It's not only to use your knowledge but it's to share your knowledge. It is vitally important that the ideas that you have been exposed to in whatever subject you've studied you try to spread out as widely as you can. So share the experience, the value of the experience that you have had," Professor Cox said.

Professor Cox rose to prominence as a member of British rock bands in the early 1990s before transitioning to work as an experimental physicist, exploring the cutting edge of particle physics. 

He received his Doctorate in Physics from the University of Manchester, completing his thesis in 1998.

In 2005, he was appointed as a professor of particle physics at Manchester University, a position that he still holds.  

As a broadcaster, he has presented highly acclaimed science programs for the British Broadcasting Corporation including Forces of Nature, Stargazing Live, The Planets and Wonders of the Solar System.

Professor Quester said Professor Cox is an excellent addition to the Swinburne community.

“Professor Cox is an esteemed global leader who embodies our vision of people and technology working together to build a better world.

“He has championed science globally and undertaken national speaking tours in Australia exploring the very latest in astrophysics and physics, with direct scientific connection to Swinburne’s Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing. 

“One of Swinburne’s three flagship priorities is space and aerospace technology research and education into space technologies and their terrestrial applications, which aligns with Professor Cox’s research," Professor Quester said.