AUGUST | Paul Tyler

Tell us about yourself, I’ve had a varied career. After completing my PhD, I “ran away” from a traditional research career, but it turns out, not from research! I took on a role as a programmer and engineer (software and hardware) for data acquisition and control systems of a particle accelerator (ions travelling at a tenth the speed of light) at ANSTO where I enjoyed supporting and interacting with cutting edge physics research. In the mid 2000’s I joined NICTA as an engineer working with researchers on (in approximate time order) knowledge representation, constraints, optimisation, traffic control, connected vehicles and then in Data61 in data privacy. During that time, I’ve transitioned from programming and systems work to applied research and project management.

How long have you worked for Data61 and why do you like working here? I have worked at Data61 since its formation and previously at NICTA, starting in 2004. I particularly enjoy the opportunities to work in teams in bringing novel solutions to the real world.

What gets you excited about your work or your projects? I enjoy working in different domains and being an integral part of teams that bring people with practical and real-world problems together with researchers with cutting edge technology to work out solutions to new and unique problems. I particularly enjoy the opportunity to engage with people outside Data61, to understand their domain and problems, to be clear on what can and can’t be done, and to deliver the best solutions possible. It is great to work with teams of researchers who are able to adapt to client’s needs. I’d love to be able to talk about specific projects, but in privacy, that is often difficult. I know though that our work is valued, especially when clients return with more work, and when I am invited to be part of a joint presentation on findings such as a webinar with the Office of the Information Commissioner, Queensland.

What is the most valuable thing you've learned while working for Data61? Take time with clients, be a reflective listener, and be clear on what we (Data61) can do for them. Don’t assume everyone is speaking the same language just because we are using the same words!

What is the one contribution you've made to SCS that you're most proud of? While I can’t comment on many things we do, I really enjoyed working with the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner during their investigation of the release of Myki data at a Melbourne Datathon. The OVIC final report is public and clearly presents their investigation and findings, and I can see the value of our engagement and the impact on their deliberations in that report. I think a lot was learned!

Top three professional skills, Data Privacy Research Project Management

What is the one thing you hope people would remember about you? To be honest, I’m not fussed that people would “remember” me. I would hope though that our work has a lasting impact, and the time I spend with people and their problems is seen as valuable and worth the effort.