Newcastle engineer shines under Australian Academy of Science spotlight / Featured News / Newsroom / The University of Newcastle, Australia

In recognition of his boundless contributions to the field of electrical engineering, the Australian Academy of Science has today announced University of Newcastle Emeritus Professor Rick Middleton as a Fellow of the Academy.

Professor Rick Middleton (FAA)

Fellows of the Australian Academy of Science (FAA) are among the nation’s most distinguished scientists, elected by their peers for ground-breaking research and contributions that have had clear impact on the broader community.

Professor Middleton is internationally renowned for his fundamental contributions across the broad spectrum of electrical engineering. His work combines deep theoretical analysis with real world implementation that have high practical relevance.

He has pioneered work on fundamental limitations in control system design, made important contributions to digital control and provided novel and deep insights into adaptive control. Professor Middleton has also made high level contributions to practical aspects of process control, telecommunications, power electronics and systems biology.

“I am very grateful to have been recognised in this way by the Academy – it is indeed a great honour. I’d like to express my thanks to many colleagues and students who I’ve worked with and who created the amazing and rich intellectual environment that nurtured and supported my work,” he said.

University Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO (FAA), congratulated Professor Middleton on the achievement.

“Our University is proud to play host to some of the nation’s best minds, as evidenced by today’s announcement.

“Professor Middleton’s notable contributions to the advancing field of electrical engineering are reflected in our outstanding performance in teaching, research and engagement. I know many of our staff, students and wider community will continue to benefit from his impactful work,” Professor Zelinsky said.

President of the Academy Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC said the new Fellows of 2025 represent the exceptional breadth and depth of Australian scientific excellence.

“Each Fellow has made remarkable contributions in their field, demonstrating the vital role that science plays in addressing our most pressing challenges and expanding human knowledge,” he said.

With the election of the 26 new Fellows in 2025, the Australian Academy of Science Fellowship now stands at 638.

The Academy’s newly elected Fellows will be formally admitted to the Academy and will present their research at Science at the Shine Dome on 2 and 3 September 2025 in Canberra.

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