Michael Small

Michael Small is a Professor and the CSIRO-UWA Chair of Complex Systems at the University of Western Australia (UWA), holding dual appointments with UWA’s Faculty of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences and CSIRO’s Mineral Resources division. As Director of the UWA Data Institute, he leads research in complex systems theory and dynamical systems, with applications to health, mining, and energy infrastructure. His academic roles include Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Chaos and Editor of Physica A.

He holds a PhD in Applied Mathematics (UWA, 1998) and a BSc(Hons) in Pure Mathematics (UWA, 1994). His research focuses on mathematical modeling of complex systems, including disease transmission networks, mental health dynamics, and industrial process optimization. Notable projects include the Transforming Indigenous Mental Health & Wellbeing initiative and collaborations with mining giants like BHP and Rio Tinto.

His awards include the V. Afraimovich Award (2022) and UWA Senior Research Award (2016). Recent work spans reservoir computing, network science, and epidemic modeling, with 354 publications and leadership in 18 grants. His interdisciplinary approach bridges academia and industry, addressing challenges in data-driven decision-making and sustainability.