Mr Andrew Richardson

Andrew has participated in collaborations between SMEs and research organisations in many different roles: as a postdoctoral researcher on a linkage project, as a researcher in industry coordinating projects with academic partners, and as a Director in a start-up company that successfully licensed IP to a major white goods manufacturer.

Originally studying opto-electronics and laser engineering, Andrew moved into fundamental research in biophysics before returning to applied research in the field of optical sensing; here he gained experience of sensor development, early phase prototyping, and project management.

Facilitating connections between SMEs and the research community is aided by the 3 years Andrew spent in technical sales of scientific equipment, in which he became familiar with the research capabilities of a broad section of the Australian research community.

As an innovation connections facilitator, Andrew is passionate about providing opportunities for SMEs and PFROs to collaborate for impactful outcomes.