Science - Technology Australia welcomes the appointment of STA President Professor Mark Hutchinson to a panel of three eminent Australians reviewing the Australian Research Council's role and function.

The eminent panel was announced by Education Minister Jason Clare.

Professor Hutchinson will join QUT Vice-Chancellor Professor Margaret Sheil AO and La Trobe University Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Susan Dodds.

His appointment ensures an active researcher - with an impressive record across his career in both discovery and translational research - is among those shaping the future of the granting agency.

Professor Hutchinson said he was deeply honoured to join the “pivotal review at a pivotal time”.

“The Australian Research Council has long been crucial to our country's research architecture,” he said. 

“It funds both curiosity-led discovery research and translational research to help Australia stay at the very forefront of new knowledge, and help our society and industry apply those breakthroughs.”

“As we commence this review, it will be important to listen to the research community about how the ARC can be even more effective in its role in funding great Australian research.”

“The research landscape and the roles of researchers are dynamic and continuously evolving. It is vital our funding schemes are equally agile to deliver more secure research careers, support great ideas, and develop products and services rapidly.”

Professor Hutchinson is a researcher, neuroscientist and entrepreneur with an inspiring track record of achievement in both blue-sky discovery research and research commercialisation.

“I look forward to contributing to the review and working with outstanding colleagues to shape the future of the ARC and its crucial role to support our country's researchers and the research sector.”