Securing the Future for Australia's Researchers

Australian researchers can look to the future with renewed confidence, thanks to a new Industry Doctoral Training Centre and the Australian Government’s Research Workforce Strategy.

The new centre will foster professional skills among researchers and help them launch their careers in industry. It is being funded by the Australian Technology Network (ATN) of Universities: the RMIT; Queensland University of Technology; the University of Technology, Sydney; Curtin University; and the University of South Australia.

Launching the pilot centre in mathematics today at the annual ATN Symposium, Innovation Minister Senator Kim Carr congratulated the ATN on its efforts to bridge the gap between the academy and the factory floor.

“This centre recognises that collaboration between universities, businesses and students is vital,” Senator Carr said. “It is the only way we can meet the growing demand for skills while opening secure career paths for researchers”.

“The discipline of mathematics is an area of critical industry and research need, and I applaud the ATN for its efforts to build Australia’s capabilities in this area.”

The 13th Annual ATN Symposium is a two day conference at the University of South Australia. Participants will explore ideas for building Australia’s research and innovation workforce.

Speaking at the symposium, Senator Carr said the ATN’s theme was timely.

“The Government has worked closely with the higher education sector to develop a comprehensive strategy for the Australian research workforce in the decade to 2020.

“We must invest in our researchers today if we are to meet the demand for university places, skilled workers, and innovative ideas tomorrow. The global competition for research talent and capital will be fierce, but the Australian Government is determined to help universities meet the challenge.”

For more information about the ATN Symposium, visit www.atn.edu.au/atnconference.