Andy Keir

Andy Keir serves as the Manager of the Research Engineering Facility (REF) at Queensland University of Technology's (QUT) Office of Research Infrastructure. He leads cross-organisational research engineering services in strategic areas like Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), Robotics and Autonomous Systems, Energy Systems, and Structural/Civil Engineering. He oversees two distributed sites (Da Vinci Precinct and Banyo Pilot Plant Precinct), focusing on efficient service delivery and business development for both internal and external markets.

Education:

• Master of Business Administration (QUT)
• PGDip(Sc) (University of Queensland)
• BSc (University of Queensland)

Research interests span Artificial Intelligence, Electrical Engineering, and their applications in Robotics, Energy Systems, and Civil Engineering. He emphasizes integrating technology for civilian UAV applications, infrastructure optimization, and sustainable energy solutions. His work combines technical expertise with strategic insights to enhance research impact.

Awards and Honors:

• AAUS Industry Champion Leadership Winner (2020)
• Fellow, Centre for Emergency and Disaster Management (2015)
• GMAA Award for Leadership and Strategy (2014)

Advising and Grants: While not directly supervising students, Keir contributes to research infrastructure strategy, project management for industry-focused programs, and intellectual property negotiations. Notable projects include semi-automated power pole inspection and advanced terrain detection systems. His collaborations aim to maximize facility utilization and foster innovation in applied research.

Labs and Facilities: Core responsibilities include managing the REF and Da Vinci/Banyo sites, which support interdisciplinary research in robotics, energy, and structural engineering. He also participates in the UAV Challenge Steering Committee, promoting safe, civilian-oriented robotics advancements.