Curtin backs data science innovation hub

Curtin University will lead the establishment of a data science innovation hub in Western Australia.

Curtin University vice-chancellor Deborah Terry says her university is supporting the start-up eco system. Photo: Sam Proctor

In today’s Higher Ed Daily Brief: WA data hub, UNSW expansion, Swinburne chancellor to depart

Curtin’s new data hub

Curtin University will lead the establishment of a data science innovation hub in Western Australia, helped along by $800,000 in funding from the WA government. Curtin University vice-chancellor Deborah Terry said it was critical to support the emerging start-up ecosystem in WA, where over 8,000 people were already working in internet and digital technology companies.

“As part of the new hub, data science undergraduate and postgraduate students from all four public universities will also gain vital insights into the sector by being exposed to real-world data science opportunities and work experience placements,” Professor Terry said.

UNSW plans Canberra expansion

UNSW has formally approved a plan to build a new campus in the ACT for its UNSW Canberra arm. The proposal is for a new development in the Canberra CBD which partners with the Canberra Institute of Technology. It could include student accommodation and possible collaboration with CIT for common teaching and social spaces as well as joint clubs societies and activities for students.

UNSW Canberra’s rector, Michael Frater, says the new campus would “be a significant expansion of the university’s Canberra-based activities and provide research, teaching, student accommodation and collaborative industry opportunities”.

UNSW Canberra and the ACT government have already signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on the proposal. The next step is to put a formal proposal to the government.

Goldsmith steps down

Business figure Graham Goldsmith is to step down as chancellor of Swinburne University of Technology. Mr Goldsmith, a Swinburne alumnus and former managing director of Goldman Sachs Australia, became chancellor in 2014, after a short period as deputy chancellor.

Vice-chancellor Linda Kristjanson said the university was thankful for his “exceptional contributions”.