HERDSA International Academics SIG hosted Professor Frances Lin on 18 August, 2025.

Professor Frances Lin delivered an inspiring presentation tracing her academic journey from China to Australia, where she completed both her Master’s and PhD in Queensland. From the outset, she recognised the value of building a strong research profile by actively seeking opportunities to engage with research groups.

A central theme of her talk was the transformative power of mentorship. Frances spoke of the invaluable support she received from both an internal mentor, who guided her career progression, and an external mentor from outside her discipline, who helped her maintain balance across professional and personal spheres.

Her career has spanned Griffith University, the University of the Sunshine Coast, and now Flinders University. Frances reflected on a pivotal moment when her external mentor encouraged her to recognise that she was no longer growing professionally. This insight prompted her move to Flinders, where she has found fresh opportunities for research and leadership development.

 “My external mentor helped me see that I wasn’t growing anymore—and that’s when I knew it was time to move. At Flinders, I’ve found the space and support to truly thrive.” Professor Frances Lin

Frances also reflected on the unique challenges faced by international academics, underscoring  the importance of courage and self-belief when navigating new academic landscapes.

“As international academics, we need to be brave enough to take the leap—growth comes when we step outside our comfort zones.”  Professor Frances Lin

Key Takeaways

Professor Lin’s journey highlights the critical role of mentorship, the courage to embrace change, and the value of recognising when it is time to pursue new challenges. Growth in academia, she reminded us, is not only about career progression but also about reflection, connection, and resilience