I congratulate Professor Aidan Byrne on his new role as Provost at The University of Queensland.
While it is disappointing that the Australian Research Council (ARC) is losing a thoughtful and insightful leader, I appreciate that Professor Byrne’s new position is a fantastic opportunity for him and wish him every success.
Professor Byrne has led the ARC with distinction since he joined in 2012 and his legacy will be one of a more open and engaged organisation.
Professor Byrne has been integral in many projects including working towards the new measurement of impact and engagement in research; a stronger focus on academic linkages with business and industry; and the continuous linkage grants process that will start on 1 July this year.
Personally, I’d like to thank Professor Byrne for all of his support and the good relations that I and all ministers have had with Aidan and the ARC. I wish him well on his new move. He has overseen a professional and world-class Council that is playing a particularly significant role in the transitioning of Australia’s economy from one fuelled by the mining and construction industry to one built on innovation, research and minds.
The process to appoint a new CEO will commence after the conclusion of the caretaker period.