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Gordon Wallace
Director ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science (ACES)
Professional Background
Professor Gordon Wallace is a distinguished leader in the field of electromaterials science, having served as the Executive Research Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science (ACES). His career began after he completed his Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Chemistry at Deakin University. Joinin' the University of Wollongong (UOW) as a professor in 1990 at just 32 years of age, Professor Wallace has dedicated his professional life to advancing the fields of nanobionics and intelligent polymers. His exceptional contributions to science and technology have made a significant impact on both national and international scales.
Under his leadership, ACES has fostered an extraordinary multidisciplinary research environment, blending advanced techniques in energy conversion, storage, and medical bionics. Professor Wallace's extensive experience and influence in the realm of electroactive materials, conductive polymers, and nanomaterials have established him as a pioneer who continually pushes the boundaries of science.
Professor Wallace holds various prestigious roles that reflect his expertise and commitment to research excellence, including the Director of the Australian National Fabrication Facility (Materials Node) and the Intelligent Polymer Research Institute (IPRI) at UOW. His leadership has been instrumental in propelling the ACES initiative into the forefront of research, paving the way for significant technological advancements and fostering collaborations across important sectors.
Education and Achievements
Professor Wallace's academic journey began at Deakin University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, followed by a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue further studies, culminating in obtaining the Doctor of Science (DSc) at both Deakin University and Hanbat National University in South Korea. His educational background laid a solid foundation for his illustrious career.
His significant achievements include being awarded an ARC Laureate Fellowship in Nanobionics in 2011, in recognition of his groundbreaking research contributions. This prestigious fellowship aimed to enhance Australia's capability in science and technology through innovation and research excellence. In 2017, Professor Wallace was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Australia, a testament to his outstanding service in the field of science, particularly in the domain of materials science and engineering.
Additionally, he was honored to be elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society of New South Wales in the same year, further solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in research and academia. Furthermore, he was recognized in the Prime Minister's Knowledge Nation 100 in 2015, an initiative designed to celebrate Australia's top 100 ideas and innovations in education and technology.
Contributions to Research and Development
As the Executive Director of ACES, Gordon Wallace leads a world-class team that has achieved remarkable advancements in electromaterials research. His dedication to education and mentorship has fostered the next generation of researchers, ensuring a continuous stream of innovative ideas and methodologies within the field.
He has established groundbreaking approaches to the development of organic conductors, enhancing their biofunctionality and processability. His work on conductive electroactive polymers, carbon nanotubes, graphene, and other functional electromaterials has made significant strides in understanding the underlying electrodynamic properties that dictate their applications in various technologies. Professor Wallace's contributions have not only enhanced academic performance and outcomes but have also facilitated the development of state-of-the-art research facilities that continue to push the envelope of science.
With extensive involvement in notable organizations and advisory boards, he has played crucial roles at various esteemed research centers in Australia and Europe. His commitment to advancing science through collaboration and innovation is evidenced by his previous scientific advisory positions. These include roles at I-Form Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, BCMATERIALS, and Stemmatters, among others.
Current Appointments
Beyond his roles in ACES and UOW, Professor Wallace continues to influence the field through various other significant appointments. He serves as a Director at the Materials Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility, where he champions advanced fabrication techniques that are vital to the development of new technologies. His role as Director of the Intelligent Polymer Research Institute (IPRI) further showcases his commitment to advancing the discipline of polymer science.
Moreover, Professor Wallace is recognized as a Business Events Sydney Ambassador, promoting Sydney as a destination for scientific discourse, collaboration, and networking within the research community. His international perspective is highlighted by his distinguished visiting professorship at Shinshu University in Japan, emphasizing the importance of cross-cultural collaboration in scientific advancement.
Recognition and Legacy
Gordon Wallace's work has garnered international recognition, establishing him as a leading expert in fields that intersect materials science, engineering, and biomedicine. His innovative research, notable achievements, and unwavering commitment to education and mentorship continue to inspire current and future researchers. Professor Wallace's remarkable journey is a testament to the potential impact of dedicated research on society, encouraging advances that support healthcare, sustainable energy technologies, and the overall progress of scientific understanding.
In summary, Professor Gordon Wallace combines his esteemed educational background with his wide-ranging professional experiences to create a lasting legacy in the field of electromaterials science. His dedication to research excellence and his capacity for fostering collaborative environments are vital components of his influence on the scientific community and beyond.