Alex Zelinsky

Professor Alex Zelinsky AO is the Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Newcastle since November 2018. Previously, he served as Australia’s Chief Defence Scientist and led Defence Science and Technology. He has a distinguished career in computer science, systems engineering, and robotics, with contributions to innovation, technology commercialization, and education. His academic background includes a PhD from the University of Wollongong and roles as Professor of Systems Engineering at the Australian National University. He co-founded Seeing Machines, a computer vision company listed on the London Stock Exchange.

Education: Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences (Honours), PhD (University of Wollongong), Honorary Doctor of Science (University of Wollongong), Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Harvard Advanced Management Program, London Business School Senior Executive Program.

Research Interests: Robotics, computer vision, autonomous systems, systems engineering, and technology integration. His work emphasizes practical applications in defense, automotive safety, and human-robot interaction. He has pioneered solutions like driver monitoring systems and vision-based interfaces.

Scientific Awards: FAA, AO, M A Sargent Medal, Pearcey Medal, and multiple fellowships. Recognized globally for contributions to robotics, engineering, and education.

Grants/Advising: Leadership roles at CSIRO, Seeing Machines, and ANU. Advocates for university-business collaboration, exemplified by the BHERT International Award for research partnerships.

Labs/Teams: Former leadership at CSIRO’s Information Sciences Group and Seeing Machines. Currently oversees Newcastle’s research initiatives in defense, offshore wind energy, and decarbonization.