Dr Sue Keay appointed Research Director of CSIRO Data61’s Cyber Physical Systems

Dr Keay joined Data61 in January 2019 to lead the Cyber Physical Systems program, which encompasses research areas including robotics and autonomous systems, distributed sensing networks, 3D mapping, AI-enabled computer vision and cybernetics.

With more than 20 years’ experience in the research sector, Dr Keay was named one of the first Superstars of STEM by Science & Technology Australia in 2017.

She was previously Chief Operating Officer at the Australian Centre for Robotic Vision, headquartered at QUT, and led the development of Australia’s first Robotics Roadmap, which highlighted how advances in robotics impact every sector of the Australian economy.

“I’m looking forward to applying the skills I’ve developed with the Australian Centre for Robotic Vision to show how new technologies can benefit society in unexpected ways, such as the use of QUT’s Rangerbot robot to help preserve the Great Barrier Reef,” Dr Keay said.

“The Cyber Physical Systems program is focussed on technologies connecting physical assets to the digital world. This convergence of data and technology is also known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution and will provide a range of opportunities for Australian companies.

“Data61 has a team of talented research scientists that will help Australia navigate this period of digital transformation and create new opportunities through research and technology,” she said.

Adrian Turner, CEO at CSIRO’s Data61, said Dr Keay is an incredible addition to the organisation’s leadership team.

“Sue’s work in developing the Australian Centre for Robotic Vision and the Robotics Roadmap is a credit to her leadership and passion,” Mr Turner said.

“I look forward to seeing her build on the strong work of the team to translate our cyber physical systems research into real-world solutions for our network of government, industry and academic partners.

“Sue’s leadership will support Data61 in helping Australia to capture the benefit of robotics and autonomous systems, distributed sensing systems, 3D mapping, computer vision and cybernetics.” he said.

A graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Dr Keay serves on the Board of the CRC for Optimising Resource Extraction and the expert advisory panel of Queensland.AI.

She recently completed her MBA with UQ Business School and mentors female-led start-up companies.

Originally published by CSIRO News on 19 December 2019.