Kate McGeoch appointed to STA Policy Committee | ARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science
Kate McGeoch smiling and looking at the camera while wearing a black outfit and standing in front of the Chemistry building at the University of Melbourne

Kate McGeoch appointed to STA Policy Committee

27 Jul 2022

Exciton Science Chief Operating Officer Kate McGeoch has been appointed to the STEM Sector Policy Committee of Science and Technology Australia.

The committee plays a crucial role informing the highly influential advocacy of STA, Australia’s peak body in science and technology.

“This is a crucial moment for the research sector in Australia,” Kate said.

“The recent election represents a vital opportunity to repair the relationship between universities and government.

“Between the climate crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic and a destructive conflict in Europe, that have wide political, economic and social impacts, the need for scientific expertise to provide considered advice on how to tackle these challenges has never been greater.

“I’m looking forward to lending my insight and experience to STA. I hope to be able to encourage the transformational change that enables Australian academia to fulfil its untapped potential.”

Kate has extensive experience in the administration of major publicly funded research projects. Since 2017 she has managed three major Australian Research Council-funded initiatives, including an Industrial Transformation Research Project and two Centres of Excellences in the role of Chief Operating Officer.

Kate holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons), a Master of Arts (Philosophy) and a Master of Laws (Juris Doctor) from Monash University, and a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from the ANU.

She is also a contributor to the inaugural edition of Innovation Papers.

Two other new members have joined the Policy Committee in addition to Kate. They are Associate Professor Vanessa Wong of Monash University, who is the Soil Science Australia President, and geneticist Dr Miloš Tanurdžić of the University of Queensland.

“Science & Technology Australia is thrilled to welcome our newest committee members, and congratulate those re-appointed. They bring vast experience, deep expertise, and a strong drive to contribute to the work of STA,” STA President Professor Mark Hutchinson said.

“We are delighted that so many impressive science and research leaders have put their hands up to serve. Their deep expertise and insights will be invaluable to the work ahead.”