Creating the conditions for research to flourish

By introducing evidence‑based initiatives that significantly lift research quality, grant success and industry engagement across the School, Alexander is building sustainable research systems that empower individuals while strengthening institutional capability. 

Beyond metrics, he has invested in people and culture, creating vibrant intellectual communities through colloquia and lecture series, championing recognition of research excellence and providing mentorship to early and mid‑career researchers, many of whom have gone on to secure major fellowships, awards and promotions.

Fostering a culture of research excellence

Alexander joined UTS in 2017. His main research interests are better ways to control light, using light to uncover information we cannot easily see, and turning this work into technologies with applications in sensing, imaging and quantum tech.

While working as an academic, Alexander became interested not only in doing his own research, but also in helping others.

“Over the years, I’ve come to care not only about discovery, but also about helping people grow, supporting good ideas, and trying to make things a little easier for others,” he said.

“I found I enjoyed supporting good ideas and improving the way things work. Firstly, it was through informal mentorship and making contributions to various committees. Then I decided to give a leadership role a try, and now I like my work more than ever before,” Alexander explained, adding that listening has helped him to become a more effective leader.

“You need to understand what is not working well, what people need and where small practical changes can really help,” he said.

Over the years, I’ve come to care not only about discovery, but also about helping people grow, supporting good ideas, and trying to make things a little easier for others.

Supporting researchers at all stages of their careers

Through research‑integrated teaching, Alexander guides students at all levels to participate meaningfully in high‑impact research, fostering a culture where research excellence is embedded across the academic lifecycle. 

His cross‑faculty initiatives and international collaborations further extend opportunities for UTS researchers and students. These efforts strengthen UTS’s research ecosystem, contributing to a culture of excellence that is collaborative, ambitious and globally connected.

“I’m very grateful to the students, collaborators, professional staff and academic colleagues I’ve worked with at UTS and beyond. This recognition belongs as much to them as it does to me,” Alexander said.

Receiving this Award means a lot to me because it is the first time I’ve received a prize that recognises the broader leadership side of academic life.

In terms of receiving a Vice Chancellor’s Award for Research Excellence, Alexander said that the Awards help recognise important work at the university that is not always visible. 

“Receiving this Award means a lot to me because it is the first time I’ve received a prize that recognises the broader leadership side of academic life,” Alexander said.

He encourages others to make the effort to nominate a colleague or themselves for future Awards.

“These awards are good for the wider research culture and show how everyone’s contributions matter.”

What’s next?

• Learn more about Alexander’s research.
• Meet the other finalists and winners of the 2025 UTS Vice-Chancellor’s Awards for Research Excellence.
• Learn how to apply for future Awards.