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Monash University > News and Events > Monash Memo
60 seconds with … Matthew Butler
21 October 2009
Name: Matthew Butler
Org. Unit: Berwick School of IT
Title: Lecturer
Campus: Berwick
How long have you been with Monash University?
Almost nine years now. My first year was at Gippsland, and the last eight have been here at Berwick.
Prior to working at Monash, where were you located and what was your role?
My background is electronic and computer engineering. Straight after my degree I worked for Australian Paper as a control systems engineer. After about five years it wasn't going where I wanted it to, so did the Aussie thing and disappeared to Europe for a while.
What challenges are ahead in your current role?
Nothing ever stays constant! The discipline, courses, subjects... everything is constantly changing. But that is a great challenge to have. At the very least I should never get bored with my job.
What is it about your job that holds your interest or is particularly satisfying?
The most satisfying aspect is being able to both teach and do research (I'm currently trying to finish my PhD). I love both parts, and maybe that is because I am never worn down by either. When my research is getting heavy, my students liven me up. And when I want to escape my students, my thesis is there waiting for me.
What is your favourite place in the world and why?
Easy. The Louvre in Paris. I have spent days wandering and getting lost in there.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
Any words of wisdom I can think of right now come straight from 'The Simpsons' so I don't think I will embarrass myself with an answer to this question.
What is something about yourself that most of your colleagues wouldn't know?
A few know this, but some of my work mates may not know I played a little in a band around Melbourne for a few years in the late 90s. For some reason our professional lives took precedence over the rock 'n' roll in the end, and world domination was put on hold.
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