Curtin appoints head of new data science hub

Curtin University has appointed a research and engagement executive to lead the new WA Data Science Innovation Hub, which is tasked with driving the latest developments in the digital and internet technologies sector.

Dr Liz Dallimore, formerly the National Director of Research Engagement and Commercialisation at KPMG Australia, will start the new Curtin University-based role as Director this month.

Curtin University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Professor Chris Moran said he was delighted to welcome Dr Dallimore to Curtin to lead the WA Data Science Innovation Hub.

“Dr Dallimore brings significant experience in research, development and commercialisation to the role and I am looking forward to seeing the advances the WA Data Science Innovation Hub delivers under her leadership,” Professor Moran said.

“By connecting industry to universities, the Curtin-led hub will ensure the sectors affected by digital disruption, including mining, oil and gas, and agriculture, have access to the latest opportunities presented by data science to ensure they remain competitive.”

Dr Dallimore said she was excited to take on the new role, which includes developing the strategic vision for the WA data science industry and working closely with other research and training organisations.

“I am very excited to be joining Curtin and to lead the WA Data Science Innovation Hub to help ensure our great State remains at the forefront of the amazing possibilities data science presents,” Dr Dallimore said.

“There is such huge potential to harness data science in this State in a broad range of industries, from resources to agtech and life sciences. I look forward to helping shape the future direction of our data science industry and for the hub to play a key part in the developments to come out of this exciting collaboration between universities, industry and business.”

The State Government allocated $800,000 from its New Industries Fund to establish the WA Data Science Innovation Hub with Curtin University matching that contribution over four years.

The hub will have a physical presence at Curtin University’s Bentley Campus, as well as at the Curtin Graduate School of Business, located alongside Curtin’s Future of Work Institute, on Murray Street in Perth.

As part of ensuring the WA Data Science Innovation Hub is meeting industry, government and education needs, a roundtable was held on October 7 with key stakeholders to reinforce the objectives of the hub and prioritise key activities for 2019.