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George Feast
CSIRO SME Collaboration Nation Lead
Professional Background
George Feast is a prominent figure in the landscape of scientific collaboration and innovation in Australia, currently leading the 'SME Collaboration Nation' mission as part of the CSIRO Challenges and Digital Transformation program. Under his leadership, this initiative aims to significantly increase the engagement of small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with publicly funded research, targeting a doubling of SME interactions by 2025. George is dedicated to enhancing facilitation and reducing barriers that SMEs face when entering partnerships with CSIRO and universities, emphasizing the critical role of innovation in driving economic growth.
With a stellar career at CSIRO, George has held various key positions, including Acting Business Development Director for CSIRO Services, where he showcased his expertise in developing strategic partnerships and fostering relationships that bridge the gap between scientific research and practical application. He has also served as the SME Program Manager and Research Advisor, roles in which he played an instrumental part in guiding SMEs through the complex landscape of research collaboration.
Education and Achievements
George's academic journey laid a solid foundation for his career in research and chemistry. He earned both his DPhil and MChem in Chemistry from the prestigious University of Oxford, where he graduated with First Class honors. His rigorous training in organic chemistry not only provided him with advanced scientific knowledge but also honed his critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which he has effectively applied throughout his career.
In addition to his roles at CSIRO, he has contributed significantly to education and knowledge dissemination as a Visiting Chemistry Lecturer at Monash University and a Stipendiary Lecturer in Organic Chemistry at Pembroke College, University of Oxford. These experiences demonstrate his commitment to nurturing future generations of scientists and encouraging the pursuit of innovation.
Achievements
Throughout his career, George Feast has accomplished several notable achievements that underscore his impact in the field. As the lead for the SME Collaboration Nation mission, he is pioneering efforts to transform the research landscape for SMEs, making it more accessible and inclusive. His innovative approach to collaboration has the potential to unlock new avenues for economic development, fostering a culture of research and innovation among small businesses in Australia.
George's extensive experience at CSIRO includes early roles as a Research Scientist and OCE Postdoctoral Fellow, where he contributed to cutting-edge research initiatives. His work has not only advanced scientific understanding but has also provided valuable insights into the practical applications of research findings. His leadership in various capacities within CSIRO has been instrumental in aligning the organization’s goals with the needs of industry partners and the broader community.
Conclusion
With a robust background in chemistry and a passion for fostering collaboration between research and real-world applications, George Feast continues to play an essential role in driving innovation within Australia’s SME sector. His educational achievements, combined with his significant contributions to public sector research, position him as a transformative leader in the field. Passionate about bridging the gap between science and industry, George is dedicated to creating a more dynamic and interconnected business environment that thrives on innovation.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
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