Bridging the Pacific: Building SMI-Chile and what we learned along the way

Speaker

Professor Doug Aitken

Abstract

This seminar will reflect on the development of SMI-Chile from a strategic and leadership perspective, exploring what is required to build and sustain an international centre operating across different cultural and industry contexts. Drawing on several years of experience establishing and growing the Centre, Doug will discuss the evolution of SMI-Chile, the challenges and opportunities encountered within the Latin American landscape, and the lessons learned in translating research capability into industry impact. The presentation will highlight insights relevant to researchers and leaders seeking to collaborate effectively in Latin America, build enduring partnerships with industry and government, and build research teams capable of addressing complex sustainability challenges.

Speaker Bio

Doug Aitken is Director of the Centre for Environmental Responsibility in Mining (CERM) at the Sustainable Minerals Institute. He previously served as Executive Director of SMI-ICE-Chile, where he led the growth of an interdisciplinary research and development centre working closely with industry, government, and academic partners across Latin America. His areas of specialisation include sustainable mining practices, bioenergy production pathways, life cycle analysis, integrated water resource management, socio-environmental risk and opportunity analysis, and strategy development and implementation. Doug has extensive experience developing large multi-stakeholder initiatives that support more sustainable and resilient mineral supply chains.