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Sach Jayasinghe
Director, Research Infrastructure Operations, QUT
Professional Background
Sach Jayasinghe is a seasoned leader with a robust track record in the national research and innovation ecosystem. With his extensive experience in bridging the gap between academia, government, and industry, he has proven adept at forming and leading cross-disciplinary teams aimed at generating significant societal impacts. His role as Director of Research Infrastructure Operations at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) exemplifies his commitment to advancing research capabilities while enhancing collaboration across disciplines, ensuring that research initiatives align with societal needs and technological advancements.
Prior to his role at QUT, Sach served as Principal Consultant and Director at Sitara Research Solutions, where he leveraged his deep understanding of research commercialisation and innovation to advise organizations on navigating complex challenges in the research sector. His tenure as Non-Executive Director at significant organizations such as the Asset Institute (formerly the CRC for Infrastructure & Engineering Asset Management) highlights his strategic vision and governance expertise in research-oriented organizations.
Sach has also contributed to shaping research strategies at The University of Melbourne as Acting Director of Research Strategy and Strategy Advisor for Research Infrastructure. His experience in these roles demonstrated his strong capability in aligning research activities with institutional goals and enhancing the impact of research outcomes.
Sach’s early career saw him excelling as Laboratory & Technical Services Manager at Prince Henry's Institute and leading the Flow Cytometry Facility at prestigious institutions including Imperial College London and the Stowers Institute for Medical Research. These experiences within high-caliber research environments equipped him with not only technical expertise but also managerial acumen that he applies in his current leadership roles.
Education and Achievements
Sach Jayasinghe’s educational foundation is comprehensive and reflects a commitment to excellence in research and innovation. He began his academic journey at the University of Melbourne, where he earned a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Molecular Biology. This rigorous training laid a solid groundwork for his career in research and biotechnology.
Continuing his pursuit of knowledge, Sach obtained a Graduate Certificate in Research Commercialisation and Intellectual Property at Queensland University of Technology. This qualification not only enhanced his understanding of protecting and commercializing innovative research but also equipped him with the skills necessary to facilitate the transition of research from academia to practical application in industry.
Further enriching his academic portfolio, Sach successfully completed an MBA with a focus on Technology and Innovation at Chifley Business School. This degree solidified his ability to integrate technological advancements into strategic management practices.
His dedication to leadership and governance is reflected in his status as a Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, underscoring his commitment to ethical leadership and governance best practices within organizations.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his career, Sach Jayasinghe has received recognition for his innovative approaches to research management and collaboration. His leadership in establishing effective research infrastructures at QUT has been pivotal in enhancing the university's research capabilities. His ability to navigate the complexities of research funding and resource allocation has empowered countless researchers to thrive.
Sach's previous consulting work at Sitara Research Solutions showcases his expertise in advising on best practices in research management, making significant contributions to the growth and success of various research organizations.
Under his guidance, teams at The University of Melbourne achieved enhanced alignment between research objectives and institutional growth strategies, further solidifying the university's reputation as a leader in research excellence.
With a passion for advancing scientific inquiry and a vision for driving innovation, Sach Jayasinghe continues to be a transformative figure in the national research landscape, influencing policies and practices that foster collaboration between academia, government, and industry.