RMIT University Law Dean Diana Bowman on Career

• Diana Bowman has worked internationally in various countries including Belgium, South Africa, and North America.
• She holds a double major in law and science, which has enabled her to work at the intersection of technology and law.
• Bowman believes that developing students who are fluent in both law and tech is crucial for their employability.
• Her expertise has allowed her to work across various fields such as nanotechnology, biotechnology, and advanced IVF technologies.

"I've just always been curious. And when different questions or opportunities have arisen, I've so often just jumped into the deep end, not knowing whether I'm going to sink or swim. That has given me extraordinary opportunities around the world, and I feel so very privileged to have had them."

Diana Bowman, RMIT University's law dean, has had a career that spans the globe. From working in Belgium to South Africa, and from North America to Australia, Bowman's journey is a testament to her insatiable curiosity. She never mapped out where her career would go, but she always knew she wanted to work internationally. 'I was looking for a position to come home to, though it had to be the right position at the right time,' Bowman said. That opportunity came when RMIT created its law dean role, which allowed her to reimagine what a law school looks like today, especially with AI dominating the conversation around legal education.

Bowman's expertise in technology and law was born from her double major in law and science. She always wanted to apply her scientific background to her legal knowledge, which led her to a Ph.D topic on the regulation of emerging technologies. Her work overseas showed just how valuable this skillset is, allowing her to work across various fields such as nanotechnology, biotechnology, and advanced IVF technologies. Bowman believes that having a combination of law and tech skills makes one an interpreter between scientists, policymakers, and lawyers, facilitating effective communication and regulation.

Bowman's advice to new law students is to 'be bold and believe in themselves.' She emphasizes the importance of curiosity and taking risks, which has given her extraordinary opportunities around the world. Bowman's own journey was not without its struggles; she struggled like every other law student, but her determination and curiosity led her to where she is today. Her message is clear: with hard work and a willingness to learn, anything is possible.

Lawyers and compliance officers may want to note that the intersection of technology and law is becoming increasingly important, and developing students who are fluent in both areas could be a key differentiator for law schools and employers looking for future talent.

Source: Original reporting via Australasian Lawyer