Australia’s oldest working scientist has won his battle with a Perth University to continue his research on campus.
In August, Edith Cowan University decided to kick Dr David Goodall out of his office at the Joodalup campus from 2017, advising the 102-year-old that he would have to work from home.
The university believed he presented a health and safety risk, due to his old age.
But Dr Goodall, who has worked for ECU for more than 20 years and has studied ecology for 70 years, contested the move because he didn’t want to leave.
It would take the scientist 90 minutes to commute to the Joondalup campus, where he worked at least four days a week.
ECU has now reversed its decision, allowing him to keep an office. But both sides had to compromise.
“Following ongoing discussions with David and his family, I am pleased we have found a solution that will ensure David can continue to be based at ECU,” ECU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Steve Chapman said in a statement.
“We have made available a new office for him at the Mount Lawley Campus, which will shorten his travel time from his home.”
It will in fact halve Dr Goodall’s travel time, and he will be situated close to support workers if he has any issues – be it work or health-related.
“[The Mt Lawler campus] is also located adjacent to our Campus Support Office, which is continuously staffed through the day, ensuring there are colleagues present should David require assistance,” Professor Chapman explained.
Dr Goodall is currently an honorary research associate at ECU, which is an unpaid position.
Dr Goodall has studied ecology for seven decades. (Edith Cowan University) Source: Edith Cowan University
“ECU is seeking to renew David’s honorary appointment this month as planned. This continues the University’s long association with David,” Professor Chapman noted.
Dr Goodall has expressed gratitude the university will accommodate him, but is said to be sad to be leaving his old office.
