High-profile former US diplomat Robin McClellan has joined Curtin University as Director of Minerals Research Initiatives.
Ms McClellan, who lectured at Curtin’s Graduate School of Business in 2010 while serving as the Director of the Committee for the Economic Development of Australia (CEDA), first became involved with the University in her time as US Consul General to Western Australia from 2004 to 2007, speaking at campus events and John Curtin Institute of Public Policy roundtables.
She was also instrumental in raising more than $1 million for the Western Australian Fulbright Perpetual Endowment and, since 2011, has been a Senior Government Relations Advisor for Exxon Mobil in Singapore.
“We’re thrilled to have Robin resume her links with Curtin and her experience in both the government and corporate spheres will be invaluable to the future development of minerals research at the University,” Curtin Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Development, Professor Graeme Wright said.
“One of the key parts of this role is attracting co-investment from government, business, industry and charitable foundations for research, teaching and engagement in minerals research.
“Robin spent 23 years working in the US Department of State and also has great experience in the corporate and resources environment, most recently with Exxon Mobil but before that with CEDA and as US Consul General to Perth.
“One of her achievements with CEDA was ensuring broad exposure of a wide range of views on the Minerals Resource Rent Tax.”
Ms McClellan brings extensive diplomatic and corporate experience which will further enhance the development of Curtin’s extensive networks with government, industry and NGOs, especially across the minerals research area.
These relationships will help to expand Curtin’s partnerships and develop alliances and projects of national and international significance in conjunction with the University’s academic groups within the minerals area.
Ms McClellan said she was excited to return to both WA and Curtin.
“I welcome the opportunity to return to WA, and to help advance Curtin University’s already strong position in minerals research,” Ms McClellan said.
“I’m particularly looking forward to exploring ways to build on Curtin’s existing connections with other universities, research institutions, and the private sector to develop further research and consulting opportunities.
“As I move into this new role, it will be exciting to draw on the networks I have established through my diplomatic and energy sector careers in Asia and the United States, as well as Australia.”
