Distinguished Marine Scientist Peter Steinberg Appointed to Lead National Sea Simulator Advisory Group
The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) has announced a significant leadership appointment for its world-renowned research facility. Professor Peter Steinberg, a veteran of marine science and research governance, has been named the inaugural Chair of the Advisory Group for the National Sea Simulator (SeaSim).
In this pivotal role, Professor Steinberg will oversee an independent committee tasked with evaluating and recommending research applications for the SeaSim Access Program. Final approvals for these high-stakes projects will rest with the AIMS Chief Executive Officer, ensuring a streamlined yet rigorous pathway for scientific advancement.
A Landmark Appointment
Professor Steinberg, an Emeritus Professor of Marine Science at UNSW Sydney, expressed his enthusiasm for the role, noting the facility’s global significance.
“SeaSim is a globally unique facility, and the research it enables will play an important role in our understanding and management of marine ecosystems,” Professor Steinberg said. “I look forward to the growth and development of this critical piece of national research infrastructure and the opportunities it will create for the science community.”
AIMS CEO Professor Selina Stead highlighted that Steinberg’s appointment is a milestone for the program. “Peter is one of Australia’s most respected marine scientists,” said Professor Stead. “His experience leading world-class research organizations and national research infrastructure makes him exceptionally well-suited to chair the Advisory Group and ensures the integrity, transparency, and scientific excellence of the assessment process.”
Extensive Leadership and Scientific Pedigree
Professor Steinberg brings decades of expertise to the position. During his tenure at UNSW Sydney, he served as the inaugural Director and CEO of the Sydney Institute of Marine Science for over a decade. His own academic contributions are profound, comprising over 250 scientific publications and a consistent ranking as a Web of Science Highly Cited Researcher. His accolades include the Australian Marine Science Association’s Silver Jubilee Award and the NSW Premier’s Prize for Science and Engineering.
Beyond his individual research, Steinberg is a central figure in Australian research governance. He currently serves on the AIMS Council and chairs the Research Advisory Committee for the Marine National Facility’s RV Investigator. His deep familiarity with the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) framework will be vital in guiding SeaSim’s mission to foster collaborative, high-impact scientific research.
Fostering Innovation in Marine Science
The SeaSim Access Program offers a competitive, merit-based pathway for both domestic and international researchers to conduct sophisticated, controlled experiments. By providing access to one of the world’s most advanced experimental marine environments, the program aims to address urgent challenges facing the world’s oceans.
SeaSim Director Craig Humphrey emphasized that the independence of the new Advisory Group is a cornerstone of the program’s success.
“Applications will be independently assessed against scientific merit, feasibility, researcher capability, strategic alignment, and the potential to deliver meaningful research outcomes,” Humphrey explained. “An independent Advisory Group ensures researchers have confidence that access is awarded through a transparent, merit-based process that supports the very best science.”
Supported by funding from the Australian Government’s NCRIS, the initiative reinforces Australia’s commitment to maintaining world-class infrastructure that drives innovation and provides critical insights into the future of marine ecosystems.
