Dr Ian Smith, the new Executive Director for Australia’s only nuclear scientific research facility, ANSTO, begins his first week in the job today.
ANSTO is no stranger to Dr Smith, who commenced his scientific career at ANSTO’s predecessor, the Australian Atomic Energy Commission, as a postgraduate student. He now returns following 34 years in mining and metallurgy academia and industry.
Dr Smith said he is looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that await him.
“I am committed to continue ANSTO’s work in building a better understanding of the benefits of its science in local, national and international communities,” said Dr Smith.
“I also wish to further enhance the current organisational culture so that staff continue to feel valued and that their work is given the recognition it deserves,” he said.
Dr Smith’s vision for ANSTO encompasses enhancing its reputation as a centre of international excellence in nuclear science and technology.
“ANSTO has many achievements under its belt of which it can be proud,” Dr Smith stated. “The replacement research reactor we are building will help us contribute even more substantially to: scientific understanding, enhancing the Australian health care system, effective environmental management and a competitive Australian economy.
“Ultimately, the replacement research reactor will underline both ANSTO’s and Australia’s credibility as an innovative contributor in the global scientific community.”
Dr Smith explained that, through his research and academic experience, he is familiar with ANSTO’s environment but recognises the growing expectations for application and commercialisation of research outcomes. His industry experience in the commercialisation of research outcomes will enable him to lead an expansion of these activities at ANSTO.
“One of my key career influences was when I decided to leave academia and work in the mining industry. It changed my direction and allowed me to develop the management skills that university could not provide at the time,” he said.
“My career as a researcher in material science and engineering has also given me the ability to understand the aspirations and frustrations of scientists, which I think will be crucial to my new role.”
Dr Smith’s previous appointment was as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Enterprise & International) at Otago University, New Zealand.
He replaces Professor Helen Garnett, who led ANSTO for nine years until October 2003 when she became the foundation Vice-Chancellor of Charles Darwin University in the Northern Territory. Dr Ron Cameron has been acting in the role since Professor Garnett left.