an evening with Peter Andrews

Queensland Governement Chief Scientist
Tuesday, 13th July 2004
National Trust House, Brisbane
 
Professor Peter Andrews spoke in detail and with great expertise about the history and future of scientific research and development in Queensland, particularly but not exclusively in the area of biosciences, as well as his specific role as Queensland’s Chief Scientist. He spoke about new partnerships, future projects, venture capital and networks that Queensland is building while honestly discussing the problems and potential that anyone working in research or enterprise encounter. His knowledge of the Australian and Queensland science industries and the way in which they interact with government policy, current practice and other professional platforms provided ample opportunity for attendees to explore the ‘Smart State’s’ approach to science in new and intriguing ways.

The event began at 6.30pm with casual drinks allowing QAAS members and guests to mingle and meet with Professor Andrews before he spoke. This set the scene for a relaxed gathering and Professor Andrews open and informal approach prompted diverse and lively discussions. It was a wonderful opportunity to have Peter Andrews and other eminent scientists together in the same room with our members and this very popular ‘Evening With’ wrapped up after more drinks and discussion at about 9pm.

 
The Queensland Chief Scientist is a new position established by the Queensland Government. It’s primary role is ensure the State’s investment in science pays dividends in terms of social well-being, economic growth and the protection of our natural environment.
Professor Peter Andrews, who was appointed in December 2003, is working to raise Queensland’s profile on the national and international stage as a centre of research and commercialisation to leverage funding and investment from a range of sources. He is also improving links with other governments, academia and industry to build critical mass in the Queensland’s science industry.
Professor Andrews is active in communicating the value of science and helping to build Queensland’s Smart State into a place where innovation flourishes.
 
More Information on Professor Peter Andrews, AO
Professor Andrews is an eminent Queensland scientist and bio-entrepreneur with extensive understanding of the policy and economic development issues associated with science, research and innovation.
He has led multifunctional scientific teams at research institutions in Victoria and Queensland, and is the author of more than 100 publications and inventor on two patents.
Peter has been at the forefront of initiatives to develop the Australian biotechnology industry and is active and vocal on the commercialisation of Australian science and research. Since 1985, he has founded, or co-founded, and been a director on more than 10 scientific companies. He now serves as a director on three Australian and two New Zealand companies.
After receiving his Bachelor of Science with honours from the University of Melbourne in 1965, he completed his PhD in 1969 and then devoted himself to researching molecular design, intermolecular interactions, drug structure and activity relationships, and molecular diversity.

Career Achievements:
Awarded an Officer in the Order of Australia in January 2004 for service to scientific research and to the development of an Australian research-based pharmaceutical industry.
In January 2000, together with Professor John Mattick AO, he established Queensland’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience - the only research institute in Australia to incorporate the full spectrum of molecular biosciences and works with national and international pharmaceutical industries to develop new therapeutics. He was also CEO of the Institute’s commercialisation arm IMBcom from 2000-2003.
Development of major research facilities at the Victorian College of Pharmacy (1980-1987), Bond University (1988-1990) and the Centre for Drug Design and Development (3D Centre) at the University of Queensland (1991-1999).
Established the first Australian laboratory in the field of computer-assisted drug design at the John Curtin School of Medical Research (Australian National University) in 1975.
Current board appointments and fellowships
Chairman, Queensland Biotechnology Advisory Council
Chairman, The Magic Pudding Company Pty Ltd
Director, Celentis Pty Ltd, New Zealand
Director, AgResearch Ltd, New Zealand
Director, Cleveland Biosensors Pty Ltd
Director, Protagonist Pty Ltd
Director, Alchemia Ltd
Board member, Industry, Research and Development Board
Member, Australian Biotechnology Advisory Council
Fellowships in major professional societies including the Royal Australian Chemical Institute; Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering and Australian Institute of Company Directors