John CUSICK (PhD)
Randwick
Summary
Dynamic professional with extensive experience across education and law, bringing a unique skill set that combines academic excellence with legal insight. Proven ability to build student wellbeing, foster resilience, and create inclusive environments that support both academic success and personal growth. Skilled in leveraging leadership and conflict‑resolution expertise to enhance student engagement and strengthen community cohesion. Demonstrated success in contributing to wider organisational initiatives, mentoring and promoting holistic student development. Committed to empowering students to achieve their full potential through innovative guidance, pastoral care, and strategic leadership.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Casual Academic, Faculty of Science
UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Sydney, NSW
01.2019 - Current
- Demonstrated commitment to fostering positive social-emotional development and resilience among students.
- Skilled in designing supportive classroom practices that promote inclusion, empathy, and respectful relationships.
- Experienced in reframing challenges as opportunities for growth, and in embedding wellbeing strategies that enhance both academic engagement and personal confidence.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
Research Fellow, Faculty of Science
UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Sydney, NSW
01.2020 - Current
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop innovative solutions for complex research challenges.
- Designed and executed experiments, utilising advanced statistical analysis software and instrumentation for data interpretation.
- Conducted comprehensive literature reviews to identify gaps in current research methodologies.
- Mentored junior researchers, fostering skill development and knowledge sharing in research practices.
Educational Professional
UNSW COLLEGE (Formerly UNSW GLOBAL)
Sydney, NSW
01.2019 - Current
- Recognised for excellence in teaching and mentoring pre‑university students in chemistry and laboratory practice.
- Designed and delivered engaging laboratory sessions that built confidence, precision, and scientific curiosity.
- Skilled in scaffolding complex concepts into accessible learning experiences, while modelling best practice in safety, accuracy, and collaborative problem‑solving.
Chemistry, Patent & Legal Consultant
INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT
Sydney, NSW
01.2018 - Current
- Advised clients on legal compliance and regulatory requirements to mitigate risks.
- Leveraged strong analytical skills to identify weaknesses in opposing counsels' arguments or evidence during contentious litigations.
- Conducted thorough legal research to inform case preparation and client decision-making processes.
- Drafted and reviewed contracts, ensuring alignment with industry standards and client needs.
- Built lasting relationships with clients and stakeholders through effective communication, attentive listening, and proactive problem solving.
Special Counsel(Intellectual Property & Technology Patent Counsel)
KING & WOOD MALLESONS
Sydney, NSW
01.2012 - 2018
- Led complex legal negotiations, ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks and client objectives.
- Developed comprehensive legal strategies to support corporate transactions and dispute resolution.
- Implemented innovative approaches to case management, optimising resource allocation and client satisfaction.
- Mentored junior lawyers, fostering professional development and promoting best practices in legal research.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop innovative solutions tailored to client needs.
- Implemented innovative approaches to case management, optimising resource allocation and client satisfaction.
Education
Doctor of Philosophy - CHEMISTRY
UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Sydney, NSW10.1993
Bachelor of Science with Honours Class 1 -
UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Sydney, NSW04.1988
Bachelor of Laws -
UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Sydney, NSW10.2001
Legal Practitioner -
SUPREME COURT OF NEW SOUTH WALES And HIGH COURT OF AUSTRALIA
Sydney, NSW05.2002
Graduate Diploma - Legal Practice
COLLEGE OF LAW
Sydney, NSW05.2002
Skills
- Student Wellbeing & Pastoral Care: Skilled in fostering positive social-emotional development, resilience, and respectful relationships, while reframing challenges into opportunities for growth Experienced in embedding wellbeing practices that enhance student outcomes across both academic and co‑curricular contexts
- Engaged Presence in Student Life: Actively engaged as a visible and approachable mentor, supporting young adults through teaching, practicum supervision, and collaborative initiatives
- Leadership & Team Collaboration: Experienced in mentoring university students and collaborating with colleagues to model best practice Committed to balancing independence with teamwork to create supportive, student‑focused environments
- Communication & Conflict Navigation: Recognised for excellent interpersonal and written communication skills, including authentic feedback, professional reporting, and navigating sensitive dynamics with discretion
- Academic & Professional Development: Designed and delivered engaging learning experiences in chemistry, creating tailored resources that promote student independence Skilled in project design, resource management, and supporting organisational priorities
- Calm Under Pressure: Proactive and reflective in managing challenges, maintaining composure, and modelling resilience for students and colleagues
- Health, Safety & Compliance: Practical understanding of duty of care and safety responsibilities in both laboratory and classroom settings, with a commitment to ongoing professional training
Accomplishments
- Teaching Excellence: Nominated for the Students' Choice Teaching UNSW in recognition of engaging, student‑centred teaching and mentorship. Recipient of Clemson University's Lecturer of the Year Award in recognition of exceptional teaching and mentorship.
- Scholarly Contributions: Published peer‑reviewed scientific and legal papers, demonstrating interdisciplinary expertise and commitment to advancing knowledge.
- Legal Achievement: Successfully represented matters before the High Court of Australia, showcasing analytical rigour, advocacy, and professional leadership.
- Building Wellbeing and Community: Actively organised co‑curricular activities to build teamwork, foster community, and enhance engagement across diverse settings.
- Mentorship & Engagement: Proven ability to inspire and support students through accessible teaching, pastoral care, and collaborative initiatives.
Affiliations
- Law Society of New South Wales
- Australian Academy of Forensic Sciences (MAAFS)
- Chartered Chemist (MRACI C Chem) Royal Australian Chemical Institute
Languages
English
Timeline
Research Fellow, Faculty of Science
UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
01.2020 - Current
Casual Academic, Faculty of Science
UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
01.2019 - Current
Educational Professional
UNSW COLLEGE (Formerly UNSW GLOBAL)
01.2019 - Current
Chemistry, Patent & Legal Consultant
INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT
01.2018 - Current
Special Counsel(Intellectual Property & Technology Patent Counsel)
KING & WOOD MALLESONS
01.2012 - 2018
Doctor of Philosophy - CHEMISTRY
UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Bachelor of Science with Honours Class 1 -
UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Bachelor of Laws -
UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Legal Practitioner -
SUPREME COURT OF NEW SOUTH WALES And HIGH COURT OF AUSTRALIA
Graduate Diploma - Legal Practice
COLLEGE OF LAW