Office of the Dean

Jonathan Withey, Dean, Faculty of Science and Technology

Jonathan holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in Chemistry from the University of Oxford. He has been Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology since January 2017. Jonathan is responsible for the overall administration of the Faculty, in collaboration with an excellent leadership team and wonderful colleagues. His primary objective is to advance the interests of the Faculty by creating an environment where all students and employees can thrive.

Email: jwithey@mtroyal.ca

Melanie Rathburn, Vice Dean, Academic

After completing degrees at Trent University (BSc Biology), University of Georgia (MSc Ecology) and Queen's University (PhD Biology), Melanie began teaching in 2005 and then moved to Calgary in 2009 to start at MRU. Melanie's field research focuses on biodiversity, animal behaviour and ecology. She also has research expertise in the scholarship of teaching and learning with a particular focus on the development of intercultural competence and understanding how students develop critical reading skills. As the Vice Dean, Melanie's role is to work with various departments to support program and curriculum development, and help advance other Faculty-wide academic initiatives.

Email: mrathburn@mtroyal.ca

Gwen O'Sullivan, Vice Dean, Research

Gwen has B.Sc. Environmental Science from University of Limerick and a PhD from Queen's University Belfast. Gwen's research area focuses within the interdisciplinary field of Environmental Forensics. Through the combination of analytical chemistry and environmental science she examines the sources, fate and behavior of environmental pollutants to better understand their impact on the environment. She joined Mount Royal University in 2011 and currently serves as the Vice Dean of Research & Scholarship within the Faculty of Science and Technology since 2023. In this role, she provides leadership and support for research, scholarship, health and safety, and infrastructure development.

Email: gosullivan@mtroyal.ca

Carla Slavik, Faculty Governance Coordinator

Carla came to Mount Royal in 2008 after spending numerous years in the Corporate Banking world. Since coming to Mount Royal, Carla has had extensive experience in various departments within Science and Technology. Carla joined the Dean's office in 2015 and is enjoying her role as the Faculty Governance Coordinator, supporting the Dean's office, department Administrative Assistants, faculty and students.

Phone: 403.440.8771
Email: cslavik@mtroyal.ca

Jessica Carswell, Faculty Finance Officer

Jessica is an accountant who has worked for more years than she wishes to admit, in industry, health care, and not-for-profit/charitable organizations. Jessica also has a science degree and technology background and is excited to support faculty, staff and students in the Faculty of Science and Technology. As the proud mother of an assistant professor, Jessica admires the dedication, passion and commitment shown by those who choose a career in academia.

Phone: 403.440.5940
Email: jcarswell@mtroyal.ca

Christine McFarlane, Manager, Academic Advising

Christine brings a rich depth of post-secondary experience from multiple institutions, having worked in a variety of roles including Teaching Assistant, Research Assistant, Admissions Assistant, and Academic Advisor. These experiences have given her a well-rounded perspective on student life and allowed her to build strong connections across campus between students, faculty, and support staff. Alongside her graduate studies, Christine has served on academic committees across different institutions and contributed to published research exploring barriers to support services. As Manager, Christine leads a dedicated team of academic advisors who are passionate about supporting Science and Technology students throughout their time at MRU.

To connect with our team, explore program options, or book an advising appointment, visit the Science and Technology Academic Advising page. We look forward to supporting you throughout your degree!