Professor Gwénaëlle Proust is a Professor of Materials Engineering at the University of Sydney (School of Civil Engineering) and the Director of the Sydney Manufacturing Hub (SMH). Her research focuses on understanding the relationships between material properties and their microstructure, aiming to improve material performance by optimising manufacturing processes. Gwénaëlle is currently serving as the 2024 Vice President of Materials Australia and is a member of the ARC College of Experts (CoE). Prof. Proust leads the Advanced Manufacturing and Materials Mission of DSI.
Could you very briefly tell us about your journey to become a leader in engineering?
My journey into leadership in engineering began with my first leadership role in my school, as the Director of Postgraduate Coursework in the School of Civil Engineering. I used this opportunity to network with the entire faculty, which fuelled my desire to be more involved and make a difference at the school, faculty and university levels. After spending six years in this role, I transitioned to the Deputy Director position at SMH in 2020, followed by the Director role, which I’ve held since May 2022. This path eventually led me to DSI. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on taking on new challenges, making an impact and learning something different at each stage, rather than quickly moving from one role to another.
What do you enjoy most about your role and research?
What I enjoy most about doing research at the university is the freedom to explore new ideas and work with a dynamic pool of people. I find it particularly exciting to mentor students and Early Career Researchers, helping them develop new research skills and ideas.
In my role as a Director, I love the diversity it brings—every day is different. I get to engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including industry partners, government representatives, and engineers in the lab. Whether it’s discussing technological advancements or managing various relationships, the variety and diversity of the role are what keep me passionate about my work.
In your opinion, how will AI impact the Advanced manufacturing and Materials research?
AI has the potential to significantly impact Advanced Manufacturing and Materials research by enhancing the reliability of manufacturing techniques. Through in-situ monitoring, AI can detect defects and make real-time decisions to optimise processes and correct defects, ultimately leading to better product quality.
The vast amount of data generated in manufacturing and research can be efficiently analysed using AI, enabling us to extract valuable insights and correlations that drive progress. With the volume of information and research papers out there, AI can be a critical tool to sift through and synthesise knowledge that would be impossible to process manually.
Can you share a project or accomplishment in your career you’re particularly proud of?
One project I’m particularly proud of is my involvement in the Sydney Manufacturing Hub. I was part of the team that designed it in 2019 and saw it through to its successful delivery. Being part of the user community that now benefits from it is incredibly rewarding, as I was able to contribute to something meaningful from its inception to its ongoing impact to the users.
What motivated you to lead the Advanced manufacturing and materials mission with DSI? What has worked well for you and are there any challenges?
I was motivated to lead the Advanced Manufacturing and Materials mission with DSI because of its multidisciplinary framework. DSI has the potential to break the silos that the schools represent and to team together researchers who would not have had the occasion to do so otherwise. It was also a great opportunity for me to meet researchers in the Faculty of Engineering and at the University with whom I had previously no connection.
What has worked well for me is tapping into the expertise of others, particularly in Computer Science. DSI has enabled new connections, working on grant applications together with talented researchers working in different fields and opportunities for co-supervision of students in other schools. However, a key challenge has been figuring out how to foster collaboration and generate interest among potential collaborators when everyone is busy.
What difference do you think DSI can make here at the University of Sydney?
I believe DSI can make a significant difference at the University of Sydney by fostering stronger connections between the different faculties like other MDIs, enabling more interdisciplinary collaboration. We’re also facilitating important conversations with the Faculty of Science and the Business school, addressing critical issues like data protection and safeguarding people. We often do not know who is doing what, and the legislations around AI. By bringing together diverse stakeholders like FE, Faculties of Science, School of Law, FMH etc. under one umbrella, DSI can drive innovation and create a more integrated approach to tackling complex challenges.
What has been the most significant barrier to female leadership in your career? What in your opinion are the benefits to having women in leadership?
One of the most significant barriers to female leadership, in my experience, has been the mentality that many women have of underestimating themselves—we can often be our own barriers. While I don’t feel as I faced barriers in my career, I’m aware that some colleagues have encountered resistance due to family responsibilities and the outdated perception that engineering isn’t suitable for women.
Having women in leadership is crucial because we have a duty to encourage and mentor other women, helping to break down these barriers and foster a more inclusive environment. Women leaders can bring diverse perspectives and drive positive change, making leadership more representative and effective.
What do you do when not doing research?
When I’m not doing research, I enjoy looking after my cats and diving into books. I’m an avid reader, and lately, I’ve been re-exploring French classics.