ACRI was established to address a critical gap in the support and recognition of research infrastructure specialists within the higher education and research sectors. These professionals, who blend technical expertise with essential business and customer service skills, are vital to advancing research. Yet, traditional career paths in academia often fail to acknowledge their unique contributions, leading to challenges in career progression and talent retention.
Membership
The Genesis of the Academy
Why the Academy Was Started
The Purpose of the Academy
The Academy was created in response to the long-standing challenge of how best to develop and nurture the research infrastructure workforce. ACRI represents a dedicated voice and community for research infrastructure specialists. Its purpose is to advocate for clear career progression paths, tailor professional development opportunities to the specific needs of the workforce, and foster a community of peers for effective knowledge diffusion.
Why Join the Academy?
By joining the Academy, members gain access to best practices, benchmarks, and a network of peers who understand the unique demands of their roles. Moreover, together you can be part of the voice in advocating for meaningful and enduring policy and systems changes in the research and innovation ecosystem. Through bespoke and fit-for-purpose upskilling and training, ACRI will look to not only enhances career prospects but also allows members to contribute more effectively to the broader research and innovation programs.
Benefits of Membership
Membership in the Academy offers numerous benefits, including:
Development
Access to tailored professional development opportunities
Community
Join a network of peers in tackling challenges and leveraging opportunities
Engagement
Participate in new collaborations across academia, government and industry
Recognition
Opportunities to contribute in advancing the mission of ACRI
Join Us
ACRI was founded to empower research infrastructure specialists by providing the support, recognition, and development opportunities they deserve. By joining, members will not only gain valuable resources and connections but also be part of a movement to elevate the status and impact of their profession within the research community.
Latest News
 "Technician Commitment and ACRI Join Forces")
18 May 2026
ACRI is proud to have the Technician Commitment join as a member.By joining as a member, the Technician Commitment will ensure that technical professionals working in the research infrastructure co...
 "Gold Sponsor - University of Melbourne")
15 May 2026
A huge thank you to our Gold Sponsor, University of Melbourne, for their generous support of the ACRI Inaugural Annual Conference 2026!
The University of Melbourne's commitment to research excellen...
The University of Melbourne's commitment to research excellen...
 "Research infrastructure staff should be on the same terms as academics")
14 May 2026
Dr Pat Metharom, Chair of the Technician Commitment Task Force at the Australasian Cytometry Society and ACRI Executive Director calls on meaningful reform in Enterprise Bargaining Agreements ...
