Appointment of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology specialist

 

8 November 2023 

Appointment of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology specialist

Today the Australian Research Council (ARC) announces a new appointment that strengthens relationships between the ARC and the university and research sectors.

ARC Chief Executive Officer, Ms Judi Zielke PSM said, “In keeping with ARC’s practice of appointing outstanding leaders and well-respected academics, I am pleased to announce Professor Alastair McEwan as ARC’s Executive Director for Biological Sciences and Biotechnology.”

“Professor McEwan has a distinguished research record with more than 200 research works across the biochemical and microbial sciences. He is also passionate about researcher development and in promoting research training across Australia.” said Ms Zielke.

Executive Directors provide an important function in liaising between the ARC as a government agency and the broader research community, outlining current work underway at the ARC and hearing sector views.

Professor McEwan will also provide strategic and operational advice, along with providing specific funding scheme and discipline expertise.

Following the CEO’s announcement, Professor McEwan said this is an exciting time to be joining the ARC.

“Australia has outstanding strengths across all areas of the Biological Sciences and there is huge potential to continue both basic research linked to knowledge impact, and translational activity linked to knowledge exchange with end-users and the creation of public value,” said Professor McEwan.

Professor McEwan has held a number of academic leadership roles at the University of Queensland including Head of School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Dean of Graduate School and most recently Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research).

His research is highly inter-disciplinary and focusses on the role of transition metal ion acquisition and tolerance in bacterial-host cell interactions and the development of metal-based antimicrobials.

Media contact: 

ARC Communications 0412 623 056 or communications@arc.gov.au