In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, the now vice-chancellor and president of the University of Newcastle, Alex Zelinsky, joins host Phil Tarrant to reflect on his previous role as chief defence scientist and head of Defence Science and Technology (DST). Zelinsky will discuss the expectations of the position within defence industry, share his thoughts surrounding the 2006 white paper and reveal the role of academics in their decision-making process. Discussing his recent appointment with the University of Newcastle, Zelinsky will share how he sees the position as a role to incite real change in the sector, and address how the university's direct relationship with the end user is resulting in better-tailored solutions to problems and ultimately further research into defence industry. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team