The Australian Research Council (ARC) has announced the induction of 123 new members to its College of Experts for 2025, bringing the total membership to 376.
These individuals will be instrumental in assessing research proposals for funding under the National Competitive Grants Program (NCGP), ensuring high standards in Australian research.
The ARC College of Experts is integral to identifying research excellence and advising on the selection of projects that merit funding.
The College members, who come from diverse backgrounds in academia, industry, and public sector research, contribute their expertise to evaluate and recommend projects that will deliver meaningful impacts for Australia.
Dr Richard Johnson, ARC’s acting chief executive officer, highlighted the significance of the new appointments, saying, “I welcome the new members to the ARC College of Experts, who with existing members ensure diversity across disciplines, gender balance, and representation from small and large Australian universities.”
Emphasising the value of this community, Dr Johnson added, “ARC College members are experts of international standing drawn from the Australian research community, and their willingness to contribute to the ARC and the overall research landscape in Australia are a testament to the strength of that community.”
Professor Jolanda Jetten, a member in her final year, reflected on her experience. “While serving on the ARC College of Experts demands a significant investment of time, it has provided me with the invaluable opportunity to engage with and appreciate the remarkable research being conducted across Australia,” she said.
For Professor Jetten, the experience has been transformative. “This experience has not only broadened my understanding of cutting-edge advancements but also connects me with a diverse network of dedicated researchers who are driving innovation in their respective fields.”
Similarly, Professor Andy Baker, who is completing his three-year term, described his tenure with the ARC College as immensely rewarding.
“It is an amazing opportunity to meet colleagues from other disciplines and universities, build new academic networks, and read some of the latest research ideas,” he said.
“The ARC really looks after you, managing your workload to help ensure that the experience is rewarding.”
The ARC extended its gratitude to the outgoing members for their dedication and invaluable contributions to the peer review process, which underpins the success and reputation of Australian research.
The full list of newly inducted members is available on the ARC website, where additional information about the College of Experts can also be found.
