The SmartSat Queensland Earth Observation Hub (EO Hub) hosted a well-attended panel at The International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium (IGARSS 2025) on one of the sector’s most important topics: how to translate world-class research into real-world impact.
Moderated by the EO Hub’s coordinator, Gavin Kennedy, the panel discussion ‘Crossing the Chasm: Funding of Research to Industry Translation and Its Impact’ brought together a strong line-up from across the stakeholder spectrum.
Featuring SmartSat CRC’s Chief Research Officer, Dr Carl Seubert, Dr Mahdiyeh Razeghi from the University of Southern Queensland, Geoimage Chief Executive Officer Mark Covington and Innovation Manager Cassandra Erbs from the Queensland Government Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.
The open and engaging discussion saw the panelists sharing practical, experience-based insights about what works (and doesn’t) in EO focussed research to industry translation programs. The industry representatives emphasised a risk averse approach, engaging with research that is focused and practical, while the researchers on the panel called for improved real-world recognition of impact, moving beyond citations. Meanwhile, the government spokespeople highlighted the importance of measuring what truly matters for communities, from capability building to improved access to resources like fresh water.
Also in the spotlight was the issue of funding models, with co-funding praised for ensuring commitment and shared ownership, however the panel noted the need to move from co-design to genuine co-delivery.
A panel experiment using “Interruption Cards” added a new dimension, allowing speakers and audience members to step in with prompts such as “I may have a different view”, turning the panel into a genuine conversation rather than a simple Q&A session.
The session reinforced the vital role of collaboration, smart funding, and end-user focus in accelerating EO innovation and delivering outcomes that make a difference.
The Queensland Earth Observation Hub incorporates the SmartSat Queensland Node and is a jointly funded initiative of SmartSat and the Queensland Government.
Gavin Kennedy
Queensland Earth Observation Hub Coordinator