The Australian Research Council (ARC) has appointed Professor Dorrit Jacob FAA as Academic Director for Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences (MPCE), bringing extensive leadership experience and research expertise to support ARC-funded research across the MPCE fields.
Professor Jacob is an internationally recognised geochemist whose research spans biomineralisation and Earth mantle processes. She is a Professor at the Australian National University (ANU), Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science, and served as the first female Director of the Research School of Earth Sciences at ANU from 2020 to 2025.
ARC CEO Professor Ute Roessner welcomed the appointment.
'Professor Jacob brings deep expertise and leadership across the physical sciences. Her experience will support the ARC's role in administering competitive research funding and maintaining high standards in peer review and research quality,' Professor Roessner said.
ARC Academic Directors are senior academic leaders who contribute disciplinary and research leadership expertise to the ARC's assessment and research funding processes.
Professor Jacob said she looked forward to contributing to the ARC's work.
'The ARC plays an important role in supporting research capability across disciplines, from early-career to established researchers. I look forward to contributing to its work and engaging with the research community,' Professor Jacob said.
Professor Jacob will commence her role on 2 June 2026.
