Dean’s and other leaders of University Science converged in Canberra Posted in Events, News, Research, Teaching and Learning on November 5, 2024 by Glenda Key. The annual ACDS Conference for Deans or equivalent leaders of University Science was held in late October in Canberra. The conference was attended by 50 participants from 27 member universities and included an impressive list of guest speakers from Government – Senator David Pocock; Department of Defence – Nigel McGinty; DISR – Anthony McGregor; Department of Education – Drew Menzies-McVey; ATSE – Peter Derbyshire; STA – Sharath Sriram, Ryan Winn and Sarah Tynan; CSIRO – Doug Hilton; NH&MRC – Steve Wesselingh; as well as business leaders Natalie Chapman – Gemaker and Erin Evans InGeNA. The opening keynote address by Shirath Sriram on “Science as an enabler for a connected research ecosystem” set a fabulous tone for the conference. The two days of presentations and panel and Q&A and networking opportunities resulted in vigorous discussion in all sessions. The program for the conference is available here. Sessions over the two days broadly revolved around the themes of: Enhancing the Value Proposition of University Science Communicating Science’s Social Impact and Engaging Stakeholders Amplifying Science’s National Role Through Collaboration Integrating First Nations knowledges, history, and culture in science curricula ACDS’s Role as an Advocate and Broker of University Science Advancing Science-Industry Partnerships and Real-World Applications A highlight for many participants was the interactive panel discussion presented by Anne Martin, Director of the Tjabal Centre (ANU), Joe Sambono, Professor of Practice in Indigenous Australian Perspectives (QUT) and Corey Tutt, CEO of Deadly Science, and Adjunct Associate Professor of Indigenous Sciences (WSU). It was enlightening and reinforced the need for more work to integrate First Nations knowledges, history, and culture in science curricula. The after-dinner address by Doug Hilton on “The vital role of trust, integrity, and long-term research investment” was both uplifting and motivating and reminded everyone of the importance of these values in shaping a strong future for university science in Australia. In closing the conference, the ACDS President – Melissa Brown, highlighted several themes that emerged during the conference from the contributions of delegates, speakers and/or panellists: Changing Narrative • Emphasised shifting from “what can we do for you” to “what can we do together,” especially in engagements with politicians, Indigenous colleagues, and industry partners. • Highlighted the importance of understanding and addressing specific needs of stakeholders, embedding the value of university science in discussions. Importance of Discovery Research and Mission-Driven Research • Underscored the need for discovery research to sustain a pipeline of future innovations, despite the current emphasis on applied research. • Shared insights from Doug Hilton and Steve Wesley on mission-driven research, advocating for interdisciplinary collaborations beyond traditional disciplines. Leading Improvements in University Teaching and Learning • Explored options for enhancing interactions with primary and secondary education through frameworks and guidance rather than direct outreach. • Addressed the issue of out-of-field teaching and discussed position papers and support for maths and science educators. • Considered collaborations with STA, CSIRO, other Councils of Deans and like-minded organisations to strengthen researcher training and resource sharing. • Discussed creating pathways for Indigenous students, with suggestions of a dedicated early and mid-career academic group. Training and Development for Researchers • Highlighted the need for programs on co-design, interdisciplinary collaboration, and industry engagement, as many researchers lack this experience. • Touched on the value of models like a German bonding program for PhD students to support professional development. • Examined the dual demands of research and teaching, balancing reputation with funding, and fostering interdisciplinary networks. Elevating the Profile of Australian University Science • Discussed the importance of building trust in science through political engagement. • Addressed a proposed ‘Decadal Plan’ to guide the long-term strategy of the ACDS. The ACDS Executive Committee will reflect on the outcomes of the conference and as part of developing the 2025 Annual Plan for the Council will seek feedback from member university nominees.
