2026 HKBU International Advisory Board for Graduate Studies Annual Meeting

Transforming Together: Building a Connected Future of Graduate Research Training  

Prof Carolin PLEWA
•    Pro Vice Chancellor, Graduate Research Training, Research and Innovation, Adelaide University

Abstract:
Graduate researchers are central to the future of our society, as emerging research and innovation leaders across academia, industry, government, and the broader community. As global challenges increase in complexity and scale, research training has never been more critical. It not only equips individuals with the mindset and skills they need to advance knowledge and create solutions; it inspires and empowers them to help address pressing complex societal needs.

Indeed, graduate research lies at the nexus of universities’ key roles: discovery and innovation—enabling people to imagine and shape the future through research that is connected and applied for positive change; human and social capital—preparing learners for diverse opportunities as responsible, motivated citizens ready to question and contribute; global futures—fostering collaboration across borders and inspiring globally engaged citizens; and social futures—serving as anchors for communities, offering stability and inspiration while advancing societal priorities such as the Sustainable Development Goals.

To harness these opportunities requires a continued evolution of the graduate researcher experience and environment. Beyond the pursuit of excellence, our graduate researchers deserve an experience grounded in connection, collaboration, and community. By strengthening connection between graduate research and society, prioritising collaboration across disciplines, sectors, and nations, and fostering inclusive research and innovation communities, we can broaden participation and enable every graduate researcher to realise their full potential. In doing so, we move towards a more connected, confident, and valued research and innovation community — one that not only advances knowledge but actively shapes a future in which research and innovation are valued, shared, and deliver meaningful societal impact.

Biography:
Carolin Plewa is the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Researcher Education and Development) and Dean of Graduate Studies, as well as Professor of Marketing and Stakeholder Engagement. Carolin specialises in engagement and value co-creation across organisations and individuals, with a particular emphasis on university-business collaboration, service, and social contexts, as well as market shaping. She also co-edited the Future of Universities Thoughtbook series. As a higher education leader with a clear vision, passion, and track record of building partnerships for positive change, she uses her research to develop and deliver research training and engagement strategies and solutions for the benefit of higher education and society at large. Her research in the context of university-business engagement, in particular, has led to her appointments to the South Australian Science Council and the ARC Engagement & Impact Assessment Panel, and as an inaugural co-chair of the University-Industry Innovation Network (UIIN) Australia Chapter and a council member of the Accreditation Council for Entrepreneurial and Engaged Universities (ACEEU).