Professor Lisa Toohey from the University of Newcastle has been awarded a prestigious Fulbright scholarship to further her research abroad.
Lisa’s research investigates the changing political dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region, and the impact they are having on the relations between Australia and the United States.
Recognised for academic merit and strong ambassadorial skills, Lisa received the Fulbright Professional Scholarship in Australian-American Alliance Studies, hosted at the University of Texas.
A Professor of Law and Assistant Dean (Equity Diversity and Inclusion) at the University of Newcastle, Lisa has research and teaching expertise in international trade law and dispute resolution.
Lisa said broadly speaking new trade restrictive measures were being introduced globally at a rate of between three-and-six-times historic levels.
“The main goal of my research is to better understand what might be done to revitalise the global trade rules to make them once again the centrepiece of the international economic order,” Lisa said.
Lisa will also investigate how globalisation and China are perceived in the United States, how this differs from Australian perceptions of China, and how US views of globalisation impact Australia and US-Australia trade relations.
“I am honoured to have this research opportunity, which will help contribute to the long-term rebuilding of the global trade system and strengthening of the US-Australian relationship,” Lisa said.
“The project will help enhance US-Australia relations by strengthening the mutual understanding of the political context in which trade currently operates for each country, and identifying ways forward for an international rule of law.”
Now in its 70th year, the Fulbright Program aims to increase binational research and exchange of ideas.
The University’s Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President, Global Engagement and Partnerships, Professor Kevin Hall, said the University’s Research Advantage program provides support aimed at giving researchers a competitive edge when applying for Fulbright scholarships.
“One of our priorities is to support our researchers to land these fantastic international opportunities so that their valuable work can be shared with global networks, leading to far-reaching impact,” Kevin said.
“We are extremely proud of Professor Toohey’s success, and the opportunity to further extend our international networks.”
Lisa was officially acknowledged at the Fulbright Gala presentation dinner on Thursday 27 February at Parliament House. She will go on to commence research at the University of Texas starting in October.
IMAGE | UON’s Professor Lisa Toohey awarded the Fulbright Scholarship in 2020
