Boards and committees

Executive Committee

In 2022, we underwent a restructuring of the Executive Committee, which resulted in the creation of portfolios that align with the strategic objectives of our Centre. This reorganisation has led to improved efficiency and a stronger sense of ownership among our leadership team. The new structure introduced four distinct portfolios: Science, People, Industry, and Education, each emphasising a core priority of the Centre.

Under the guidance of the Executive Committee, several key initiatives throughout 2023 have been launched:

1. Enhanced Mentoring Programs: We have revitalised our mentoring programs to better support our members' professional development.
2. Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): A best practice guide for EDI processes and policies has been developed to ensure a more inclusive and equitable work environment.
3. Scientific Goals: Our focus on achieving our scientific goals has been intensified, with a commitment to providing the necessary resources for our research platforms.
4. Industry Engagement: We have placed a greater emphasis on engaging with industry partners. This includes planning a multi-centre Hackathon event scheduled for 2024 and securing funding for research projects that advance our industry engagement and commercialisation efforts.
5. Outreach and Communications: Our outreach and communications program has been renewed and invigorated. Notably, our professional staff embarked on a tour of Europe and the UK to expand our international presence.

This strategic realignment and commitment to these priorities reflect our dedication to fostering excellence, collaboration, and impact within Exciton Science as we look ahead to 2024.

Science Committee

In 2023, the Science Committee's primary focus was to ensure that Exciton Science had the necessary resources to achieve its original objectives and conclude its activities with a strong finish. As we approach the conclusion of our Centre's activities in 2024, this year provided an opportunity for reflection on the remarkable achievements and impact that we have made in the solar energy materials field over the past six years.

During this period, the Science Committee also played a crucial role in overseeing the allocation of several Exciton Science Research Grants. These grants were specifically designed to enhance the capacity and capabilities of our early career researchers and to provide them with the best possible support and opportunities for success as they contemplate their future career paths.

Centre Advisory Board

Exciton Science's journey continues to evolve, adapting to the different phases that define our Centre's life cycle. As we approach 2024, we reflect on our progress and look forward to the opportunities and challenges ahead. The Centre Advisory Board remains a crucial part of shaping our strategic direction and ensuring the continued success of our research initiatives.

As we head into 2024, we remain dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and making a meaningful impact in materials science. The collaborative spirit and strategic guidance provided by our Centre Advisory Board continue to drive our progress. Together, we eagerly anticipate another year of transformative research and shared accomplishments, propelling Exciton Science to new levels of success.

Industry Advisory Committee

In 2022, following recommendations from our Mid Term Review, we embarked on the strategic journey of establishing an Industry Advisory Committee. This initiative was conceived as part of a broader strategy aimed at recognising and enhancing our connections with industry stakeholders. Our goal was to leverage these relationships to maximise the impact of our technological breakthroughs and foster more extensive collaborations with industry partners who could benefit from the research conducted at our Centre.

This committee was designed to align with our strategic objectives and draw expertise from diverse sectors, specifically from the energy and materials industries. We assembled a diverse group representing private Australian and international industry, ranging from large multinational corporations to innovative small enterprises, energy sector networks, and public sector entities.

The committee throughout 2023 have already made significant contributions to our Centre's mission by providing valuable guidance and strategic direction. As we look forward to 2024, we are eager to build upon this strong foundation, deepen our relationships with industry partners, and continue to drive impactful research and technological advancements that benefit both our Centre and the broader industry landscape.

International Scientific Advisory Committee

The Exciton Science International Scientific Advisory Committee (ISAC) has remained a consistent and invaluable asset to our Centre and since 2019 has been under the steadfast leadership of Prof. Elsa Reichmanis. Over the years, ISAC has played a pivotal role in providing international perspectives and guidance, especially during the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. As we reflect on the year 2023 and look ahead to 2024, we acknowledge the significant contributions and dedication of our committee members.

Each year, we entrust ISAC with the important task of reviewing our extensive research platforms and soliciting their guidance on the suitability of our research directions and outcomes. We recognise the weight of this responsibility and extend our gratitude to the committee for the time and effort they invest in our Centre.

Looking forward to 2024, we have invited our ISAC to Australia to witness first-hand what the CentreTop of Form has built over the past seven years, and share with us their vision for the future of the field of excitonic science.