Professor Paul Iji

Fiji National University’s (FNU) Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation, Professor Paul Iji, has achieved a prestigious ranking as the number one researcher in Fiji in the field of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, according to Research.com.

Professor Iji is also the only researcher listed in this category in the South Pacific.

Professor Iji, who is originally from Nigeria, has been at the forefront of research and innovation at the Fiji National University and has previously been the Dean of the College of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry.

“I have been in the tertiary education sector since 1987, after my compulsory national youth service, during which I taught agricultural science and biology at a secondary school.  Since obtaining my first degree, I have worked in Nigeria, South Africa, Australia, and now in Fiji,” Professor Iji said.

“I have risen through the ranks from Assistant Lecturer to full Professor.  I was promoted to full Professor in January 2014 by the University of New England (UNE), Australia.  In terms of professional positions, I have been a teaching and research academic, an HDR Coordinator (the equivalent of Associate Dean at UNE at the time), a Dean and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (briefly in charge of learning and teaching), and I am now in charge of research.”

Professor Iji said he comes from an agricultural background, and his family is involved in farming and agriculture.

“My father was regarded as one of the successful farmers in the area, but something told my infant mind that we were not too successful.  We worked too hard but not too smart.  That informed me to study agriculture to help the family and the community,” he said.

“I feel honoured to be recognised among my peers, but I feel even more elated that FNU is recognised as my research base.  I am optimistic that researchers at FNU will continue to rise until we become well known for research in our many key research disciplines.”

He stated that FNU has the potential to advance in the field of research and gain recognition in the research community.

“The recognition positions FNU very strongly in the eyes of the region and the world.  It conveys to potential students and scientists that we have a world-class researcher leading our research, implying proper management of research processes and good mentoring and attention for anyone coming here to study or partner with us.”

Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, the FNU Vice-Chancellor, congratulated Professor Iji on his achievement.

“I wholeheartedly congratulate Professor Paul for his achievement in his field of research, and I am proud that he has achieved this status while at the helm of Research and Innovation at the Fiji National University,” Professor Nabobo-Baba said.

For the first time ever, the Times Higher Education ranking recognised FNU in the field of research. This speaks volumes about our research, and we are moving in the right direction.

“Without a shred of doubt, I have all the confidence and faith in Professor Paul to take our research to the next level and build a strong research foundation at FNU.”

Professor Iji was ranked 1156 globally in the same discipline.