Last week, members of the Phenomics Australia team attended the Academy for Collaborative Research Infrastructure (ACRI) Inaugural Annual Conference at Melbourne Connect, joining more than 200 others from across Australia’s National Research Infrastructure (NRI) community.
Centred on the themes of Collaboration, Recognition and Visibility, the conference brought together research infrastructure professionals to explore how the sector can continue to strengthen capability, support its workforce and maximise its impact on Australian research.
As the dedicated voice and community for Australia’s research infrastructure workforce, ACRI advocates for clearer career pathways, targeted professional development and greater recognition of the people who enable research. Across two days of keynote presentations, panel discussions and interactive breakout sessions, attendees explored topics including research translation, industry engagement, artificial intelligence, workforce development, sustainable funding models and communicating the value of research infrastructure.
A recurring message throughout the conference was that research infrastructure is far more than facilities and equipment—it is the skilled people, collaborative networks and long-term investment that enable scientific discovery. Speakers highlighted the importance of recognising technical professionals as foundational contributors to research, while also encouraging the sector to better communicate the impact of research infrastructure on innovation, productivity and the Australian economy.
Discussions also reinforced that research infrastructure and research are intrinsically connected. Scientific challenges drive the development of new capabilities, while advances in infrastructure enable the next generation of discoveries. Participants explored how sustained investment in both technology and people creates a virtuous cycle, strengthening expertise, fostering collaboration and ensuring Australia’s research ecosystem remains globally competitive.
Overall, the conference provided valuable opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the NCRIS community, exchange ideas on sustainability, workforce development and impact measurement, and contribute to conversations about the future of Australia’s national research infrastructure.
As an member of ACRI, Phenomics Australia is proud to support initiatives that recognise, develop and connect Australia’s research infrastructure workforce. We look forward to continuing to work alongside our colleagues across the sector to strengthen the people and capabilities that underpin world-class research and innovation.
