AIML Director steps down, moves into new venture

An international search will begin for the new Director of Adelaide University's Australian Institute for Machine Learning, as Professor Simon Lucey steps down from 7 September.

Professor Lucey has held the position since 2020 but is stepping aside to lead a new AI venture.

"Being part of this community has been a career highlight in every sense of the word," he said.

"It’s not easy to step away from a place that has shaped me so deeply, but I do so with immense gratitude and pride for everything we’ve built together.

"I’ve had the joy of working alongside brilliant researchers, esteemed partners, and a team whose commitment inspires me every day.

"Together, we’ve achieved incredible things and it’s been an honour to witness your ideas, your energy, and your generosity drive that progress.

Professor Lucey will remain with Adelaide University on a fractional appointment as a Professor in the School of Computer Science and Information Technology.

"This will allow me to continue supporting my current students and administering existing grants, while also keeping an eye on the Institute's continued growth and impact from a new vantage point," he said.

"I know that with the exceptional calibre of students, researchers, and staff in our midst, that this group will continue to excel.

"I’m excited to see what comes next and am confident that AIML's future is bright."

Adelaide University Pro Vice Chancellor Research Performance Professor Mark Hutchinson thanked Professor Lucey for his leadership and wished him the best for the future.

"Professor Lucey has been a trailblazer in artificial intelligence and has helped establish and grow AIML into what it is today - Australia's largest university-based machine learning research institute, with more than 200 researchers, students and engineers and a strong track record of industry engagement and impact," Professor Hutchinson said.

"This is also an exciting time for the University as Professor Lucey’s new venture demonstrates the successful translation of world-leading AI research and leadership into the creation of high-growth technology ventures, while retaining that talent in an ongoing capacity."

Photo credit: Mike Smith Pictures