Annual Report 2008 - Central Queensland University

Research &
Innovation
with the international brake supplier Faiveley Transport, Italy.
Research using near infra-red technology has resulted in the development of a rapid
non-invasive assessment of food quality, for optimal harvest timing, post-harvest
management and marketing strategies. This research has resulted in commercially
available devices used in the fruit industry. A new commercial production model was
developed in 2008 for the fruit growers market.
Higher Degree by Research Students and Scholarships
An external review of the University’s doctoral programs, policies and practices
was undertaken in 2008. The intention of the review was to ensure that the research
training experience offered to the University’s doctoral candidates would afford
them every opportunity to succeed and would be underpinned by a reputation
for excellence and innovation at CQUniversity. The review found that the current
PhD program at CQUniversity is well developed and documented, in relation to
national benchmarks; that candidates and supervisors demonstrated a high level of
commitment to quality candidature and outcomes and to graduate research training;
that the rigor of the confirmation process at the end of the first year of candidature
provided a good early assessment of candidate performance and capability; and
there was evidence of strong supervisory relationships between candidates and
supervisors.
Higher degree by research students are supported by several scholarship
opportunities. New for 2008 were Strategic Scholarships for high calibre students
studying in the University’s research priority areas; the International Scholarships
for attracting and supporting high quality international research students; and
changes to the Industry Co-Funded Scholarship program. The University also offers
Australian Post-graduate Awards; University post-graduate awards and several
minority group scholarships.
Research Culture
The research culture of the institution is fostered by a range of research events
designed to promote the activities of researchers and students to internal and
external stakeholders; develop research collaborations and networks; and provide a
stimulating intellectual environment. Activities have included the Faculty Research
Workshops; the Healthy Communities Seminar series; the Research Showcases; and
the Breakfast with the Prof sessions.
Research Management and Compliance
The University’s research strategy and objectives are met through implementation of
the Research Management and Operational Plan. The Office of Research continued
its commitment to provision of timely and relevant service to research staff and
candidates in 2008. A suite of professional development programs was offered to
staff and candidates as part of the research training function of the Office. Those
programs addressed topics as far ranging as writing a literature review to effective
supervision techniques. Guest speakers delivered training in specific software
packages and shared insights on topics including, but by no means limited to,
managing research relationships, effective writing skills and conflict management.
The sub-committees of Academic Board, the Postgraduate Research Advisory Panel
(PRAP) and the Research Committee of Academic Board (ReCAB), continued their
important contributions to the direction and management of research management
and administration through regular, well attended meetings. The revised Committee
structure for research management at CQUniversity again proved successful in
2008, as processes were streamlined and meetings focused on research strategy,
policy and implementation processes. The Committees were proactive in
contributing to the government-initiated research-related reviews in 2008.
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