Professor Roland De Marco received his PhD in Physical Science from La Trobe University in 1992. In January 2011, Professor De Marco took up the position of inaugural Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) at the University of the Sunshine Coast and attained the position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) in January 2016. He continues research in the surface and interface analysis of applied electromaterials, and has procured over $15.6 million in competitive research funding and has published over 150 refereed publications in the field. He also serves on a number of State and National Scientific Boards and Committees.