Flinders Associate Professor Sarah Harmer- Bassell has been named a member of the new Premier’s Science and Innovation Council.
Associate Professor Harmer- Bassell, Director of Flinders Microscopy and Microanalysis, will provide advice on the strategic priorities and major advances in science and technology that drive South Australia’s growth agenda.
The 10 members on the council include:
- Professor Caroline McMillen (Chair), Chief Scientist for South Australia
- Philip Marcus Clark AO, Director, Food Agility Cooperative Research Centre
- Professor Matthew Gilliham, Director, Waite Research Institute and the School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, University of Adelaide
- Associate Professor Sarah Harmer-Bassell, Director of Flinders Microscopy and Microanalysis
- Professor Emily Hilder, Director, Future Industries Institute University of South Australia
- Professor Andre Luiten, Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing Director – Chair of Experimental Physics, University of Adelaide
- Dr Sanjay Mazumdar, Partner, Innovation, Digital and Data, KPMG Australia.
- Dr Julie Phillip, Chair AusBiotech CEO and Executive Director, BioDiem Ltd
- Professor Steve Wesselingh, Executive Director, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI)
- Beth Worrall, National Skills Program Lead Microsoft
Premier Steven Marshall says the members have been selected for their expertise and knowledge in science, research and innovation.
“Their role is to provide input on the performance of the state’s science, research and innovation strategic plan, analyse international and national imperatives and emerging technologies, and consider market responses that provide opportunities for South Australia.”
“Importantly, they will also champion diversity in the science workforce and monitor the progress of South Australia in the delivery of the national Women in STEM Decadal Plan.”
“There is also a wonderful opportunity for the Council to tap into the work of RiAus, in showcasing the achievements of South Australian and Australian scientific discoveries.”
The Premier’s Science and Innovation Council replaces the SA Science Council, which was chaired by the former Chief Scientist Dr Leanna Read until March 2018.
SA Chief Scientist Professor Caroline McMillen says South Australia is well positioned to harness world-class science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) to deliver strong economic, health and environmental outcomes.
“I look forward to working with this outstanding group of leaders to ensure South Australia continues to grow as a ‘State of Science’ where creativity and discovery shape our future industries and jobs and deliver solutions to some of the most complex problems facing our society.”