Dr Sarvesh Soni

Sarvesh is an experienced academician/scientist with a demonstrated history of working in the tertiary education industry (RMIT, Monash, CSIRO, and New York University) and conducting highly multidisciplinary translational research. 

Sarvesh is the founder-director for RMIT Technology and Entrepreneurship Network & Club, which helps people with a shared interest in innovations, translation and research commercialisation.

He will be developing policies and regulations for therapeutic goods and new biomedical devices and products. 

What were you researching before you started as a Science Policy Fellow?

I have been trained as a microbiologist and further utilised the underlying principles and methodologies to develop my research profile in nanobiotechnology, microbial diagnostics, and nanotherapeutics. By engaging with organisations, public and private, communities and individuals, I have achieved the overarching goal of my research to contribute to 'sustainable mitigation of Public Health Risks'. 

The potential impact of my research include transformation in the way biosolids are managed in Australia which paves the way for improved and more environmentally sustainable practices globally; novel methods for nanobiomaterials’ synthesis & applications, point of care microbial detection technology for risk mitigation; policy change in regard to the storage and release of recycled water; optimization of the use of sunscreens (and toxic pollutants) in the marine/aquatic environment; and inhaled nano- therapeutics and sub-unit vaccine for deadly tuberculosis.

How has your research background helped you contribute to policy development?

I have generated innovative projects and outcomes through my ability to connect diverse groups of researchers in my research team and in my large network of international collaborators, particularly at the interface between biology, chemistry, and engineering. A great deal of independent research, requiring initiative, self-motivation, national and international collaborations, a wide range of skills and working in multidisciplinary team have prepared me contribute to government policy development process.

How has the program changed your career aspirations?

I have been committed to driving real-world impact from the highest calibre research and have transitioned my research from pure enzymology/biochemistry towards highly multidisciplinary applied research in bioresource management policy, diagnostics, nano-therapeutics and citizen science. I am passionate about environment, technology entrepreneurship and innovations to make more job creators than job seekers. I believe that as a science policy maker I can help implementation and delivery of government’s initiatives to accomplish real world impact. 

  

What is your favourite part about working in a policy role in the Australian Public Service?

I have always believed that as a scientist, it is my responsibility to give back to society and be accountable to taxpayers whose money I used for research. My current role has enabled me to think about the larger good and has broadened my vision for giving back to society.