Science Gallery Melbourne gets a director

Rose Hiscock has been announced as the inaugural director of Science Gallery Melbourne, a venue for science and art collaboration planned for the heart of Melbourne’s new innovation precinct. Science Gallery is an international initiative pioneered by Trinity College Dublin, delivering a dynamic model for engaging 15- to 25-year-olds with science.

Science Gallery Melbourne will be part of the Global Science Gallery Network — a network of eight Science Gallery locations developed in partnership with leading universities in urban centres. It will follow in the path of Science Gallery Dublin — which has been visited by 1.9 million people since opening in 2008 — and Science Gallery London, which is due to open in 2017. Science Gallery Melbourne will open alongside Science Gallery Bangalore in 2018.

Each Science Gallery will generate exhibitions and programs derived from the local creative and scientific community, increasing public understanding and access to high-quality science–art public engagement. In the case of Science Gallery Melbourne, it is envisaged that the venue will act as the ‘front door’ to the University of Melbourne’s new innovation precinct, Carlton Connect.

“75% of the fastest growing occupations require STEM subjects, where Australia has worrying gaps in these skills from primary to tertiary education levels,” said Professor Karen Day, Dean of Science at the University of Melbourne. “A Science Gallery Melbourne would be a powerful addition towards building Australia’s engagement and literacy in STEM subjects and in providing a creative bridge between art and science (STEAM). We are seeking the partnerships to make this stunning vision a reality.”

Hiscock will commence her position as director in February 2016, following her current role as director of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, which includes Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum. She said she is honoured to have been chosen to set up Science Gallery Melbourne.

“As a passionate advocate for arts and science, I believe Science Gallery Melbourne will make a profound impact on the ideas and cultural life of the city,” said Hiscock.

“Arts and science play a crucial role in shaping our future. I’m looking forward to working with great minds — from Australia and around the world — to bring this exciting new initiative to Melbourne.”