Simon has a long career in education and research with a focus on agricultural and biomedical science applications. He was Vice Chancellor of Charles Darwin University from 2014 to 2020 and prior to that a Professor of Animal Science and Director, Roseworthy Campus at the University of Adelaide. He has also been the Chief Scientist, Livestock & Farming Systems and Director, Science Partnerships with the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI). Simon is a passionate advocate of the role education plays in assisting people to capitalise on their inherent potential. He believes quality research and innovation is the key to a productive and sustainable economy. Simon’s extensive leadership experience at senior levels of both academia and government has awarded him an international research reputation in agricultural and biomedical science. He also holds a strong record of working closely with industry partners including Cooperative Research Centres and with organisations such as the Menzies Foundation.