Katie Ozdowska and Shaie O'Brien attend 2025 ARMS Conference in Melbourne

Over three days in Melbourne, Katie Ozdowska and Shaie O’Brien represented MISCH and MCCT at the 2025 Australasian Research Management Society (ARMS) Conference, joining hundreds of research management professionals from across the region.

The program featured an impressive lineup of keynote and panel sessions exploring leadership, research strategy, innovation, and the evolving funding landscape. Highlights included:

• Kevin Sheedy AO sharing his legacy of leadership, innovation, and Indigenous engagement in Australian sport.
• Ryan Winn (CEO, Science & Technology Australia) offering insights into navigating national research policy and international collaboration.
• A Trailblazer Universities panel reflecting on successes, challenges, and the future of research commercialisation.
• Professor Dame Juliet Gerrard drawing on her experience as Chief Science Advisor to three New Zealand Prime Ministers, reflecting on science advice during times of crisis.
• Discussions on “third space” research roles, funding models, and Indigenous-focused student support led by experts from Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.

Adding to the conference’s collaborative spirit, Katie volunteered as a judge for the poster sessions, supporting emerging voices in research management.

“Judging posters at the 2025 ARMS Conference was a rewarding opportunity for me to engage with emerging research. I was able to connect with passionate professionals and learn about the diverse and creative ways people are tackling challenges in research management,” Katie reflected.