The Australian Research Council (ARC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Steven Weller as Executive Director, Engineering and Information Sciences today. Professor Weller is eminently qualified to provide expert advice and guidance in research excellence to the ARC.
ARC Chief Executive Officer Ms Judi Zielke PSM congratulated Professor Weller on his appointment. "Professor Weller's appointment reaffirms the ARC's commitment to ensuring that it has the necessary leadership to continue delivering excellence in support of Australia's innovation and research system," Ms Zielke said.
"Executive Directors have an important role in supporting our ongoing investment in university research to continue to encourage the adoption and translation of research, increase its impact and achieve greater national benefit for Australia."
Steven Weller is Professor of Electrical Engineering at the University of Newcastle and is currently Director of the Science and Engineering Challenge (SEC) outreach program inspiring young people to study science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects in senior high school. The SEC is a cooperative venture between the University of Newcastle, 120 Rotary clubs, local communities and local businesses, governments, professional groups and some 30 universities.
Professor Weller said he was delighted with the appointment and looking forward to joining the ARC to promote the vital importance of the highest-quality Australian research in Engineering and Information Sciences.
"The ARC plays an integral role in Australia's research and innovation environment. Representing Engineering and Information Sciences on the ARC executive is an exciting opportunity to promote the importance of these fields for the advancement of Australian society," Professor Weller said.
"I'm looking forward to working to strengthen relationships between the ARC as a government agency and the broader research community."
Highly awarded Professor Weller is also an elected Fellow of the Royal Society of New South Wales. He comes to the ARC with extensive experience working in senior positions across the university sector, and in collaboration with industry partners on many projects.
