Newcastle uni appoints local energy expert to lead major energy research hub

newy.com.au – The University of Newcastle has appointed Novocastrian energy expert and alumnus Dr Paul Ebert as the new Executive Director of the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER), with the leadership transition to take effect in March 2026.

The appointment, announced on Friday, marks what the University has described as an important new chapter for its flagship energy and resources research hub as the Hunter region positions itself in a low-carbon economy.

Dr Ebert brings nearly two decades of global leadership experience across the energy, chemicals and resources sectors, most recently serving as Group Director Sustainability and Energy Transition Leadership at global engineering services company Worley, which employs more than 50,000 people worldwide.

According to the University, he has played a key role in advancing low-emissions energy strategies and building partnerships with international organisations including Shell, Google, Saudi Aramco and Princeton University, while also working closely with major Australian companies such as Qantas and Rio Tinto and consulting widely with businesses across the Hunter.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky AO said Dr Ebert’s appointment would strengthen NIER’s role in tackling complex energy challenges through collaboration with industry.

“Dr Ebert is an outstanding leader with deep expertise in energy transition and sustainability. His global experience and strong local connections will help NIER continue to deliver innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges,” Professor Zelinsky said.

“As an alumnus of our University, Paul understands the importance of industry-engaged research and the role NIER plays in driving economic and environmental outcomes for our region and beyond,” he said.

NIER’s industry-engaged research model links University researchers with partners in clean energy, resources, food and water, with a focus on delivering practical solutions that support new industries, skills and jobs, regional prosperity and national competitiveness in a low-carbon economy.

Dr Ebert will succeed Professor Alan Broadfoot, who has led NIER since its inception in 2010 and overseen its growth into what the University describes as a nationally and globally recognised research precinct. Under Professor Broadfoot’s leadership, NIER has supported more than 200 PhD students, brought together 19 research centres and groups, and collaborated with almost 200 industry partners on projects designed to drive real-world impact.

Professor Zelinsky paid tribute to the outgoing executive director, saying Professor Broadfoot’s contribution had reshaped the University’s applied research footprint.

“Professor Broadfoot’s vision and leadership have been instrumental in establishing NIER as a powerhouse of industry collaboration and innovation. Alan’s legacy will continue to shape the University’s research impact for years to come,” he said.

“Our University is extremely grateful for all that Alan has done in establishing and growing NIER to be nationally and globally recognised for its unique industry engaged research model. Alan’s leadership has transformed NIER into a catalyst for clean energy innovation, helping position the Hunter and Australia at the forefront of the global energy transition.”

Professor Broadfoot will remain at the University in the Research and Innovation Division, where he will assist with Dr Ebert’s transition into the role while continuing to oversee two major initiatives, the Energy Skills Hub and the Future Industries Facility as NIER prepares for its next phase of growth.