Senator Kim Carr, the Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, today announced that four international innovation experts have agreed to act as advisors to the review of Australia's National Innovation System.
"It is essential that we draw upon the expertise and knowledge that exists within the international innovation community in order to develop a world class innovation system," Senator Carr said.
"The input and cooperation of the international experts will ensure the innovation review is fully abreast of the latest developments in innovation policy and is taking them into account in their deliberations."
The international experts are:
Professor Alan Hughes of the University of Cambridge (UK). Professor Hughes works on the measurement of innovation, in small and medium enterprises, measurement and evaluation of industrial and business support policy. Professor Hughes will be visiting Australia 7-11 April and will meet the review panel of the review of the National Innovation System. He will also be giving a seminar hosted by the Australian Business Foundation on 10 April in Sydney.
Professor Richard Lester of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (USA). Professor Lester works on industrial innovation and the management of technology, national and regional productivity, competitiveness and innovation performance. Professor Lester works on a broad range of multidisciplinary research projects concerning the uses of science and technology in industry and the implications for society and the global economy. He will visit Australia in May to work with the panel and its working groups and assist with roundtables and workshops.
Professor Stan Metcalfe of the University of Manchester (UK). Professor Metcalfe works on the development of science and innovation policy in the UK. He specialises in evolutionary economics in relation to innovation, competition and economic growth, and the development of science and technology policy and management strategies. Professor Metcalfe will be in Australia in June to work with the Review panel as it drafts its report.
Professor Keith Smith from the Australian Innovation Research Centre.
Professor Smith has worked in Europe for many years on innovation policy. His research work includes the nature and dynamics of innovation processes and innovation systems, innovation in low-technology industries and innovation statistics, and the development of science, technology and innovation policy.
Senator Carr said he was delighted that all four advisers had agreed to participate in the review as they bring an important international perspective.
Additional participants in the review include Nick Donofrio, IBM’s Global Vice-President and Head of Innovation and Technology and Professor Mark Dodgson, Director of the University of Queensland’s Technology and Innovation Management Centre.
All of those taking part bring rigorous global perspectives to the review.
"These eminent people bring a wealth of international experience and knowledge to the review and I know they will make a significant contribution to its work," Senator Carr said.
Media contact: Catriona Jackson, Minister's Office, 0417 142 238