Dr Kathy Nielsen is new chief executive of The University of Melbourne and Monash University’s research translation joint venture, BioCurate, focusing on therapeutics. Dr Nielsen brings over 25 years of experience in senior leadership roles primarily in the life science sector, with deep experience in technology transfer, venture capital, creating and advancing spin out companies, and operating in the nexus between research and the pharmaceutical industry.
Dr Nielsen spent several years as Monash’s Director of Commercialisation for life sciences, followed by a stint as the University’s Senior Director of Commercialisation. During this period, she led Monash Innovation through a period of growth, building a robust pipeline, an expert transaction-oriented team and demonstrated success in global licensing and securing investment. Previously, Kathy was Senior Investment Manager at Queensland Investment Corporation, involved with four Venture Capital funds and invested in more than 20 BioTech/life science companies across Australia and the United States. Kathy is also experienced in corporate governance, having held 18 directorships.
