ANFF extends its thanks to ANFF-NSW Node Director François Ladouceur, who will depart ANFF-NSW following his resignation from UNSW.
A leader in photonics, François has worked with ANFF for more than a decade as a researcher and technology developer. His research has contributed to advances in telecommunications and sensing technologies. Beyond those achievements, François has played an active role in translating technology into practical applications and commercial opportunities.
As both a user of ANFF facilities and a leader within the organisation, François’ long association with ANFF gave him a unique perspective on the role national research infrastructure plays in supporting Australian researchers and industry.
“It has been great to have someone like François in the role of ANFF-NSW Node director. He is someone with a rare combination of having been a user of our facilities, grown companies from technologies developed at ANFF and helped steer our facilities so they are future ready,” said ANFF CEO Jane Fitzpatrick. “I know that François will continue to bring his unique perspective to whatever he decides to put his energy behind.”
As one of eight nodes in the ANFF network, ANFF-NSW supports researchers and industry through access to advanced micro- and nanofabrication capabilities and world-class technical expertise. During François’ tenure, the node continued to support a broad range of research and industry projects, and he strengthened connections between ANFF and the photonics sector.
Providing researchers with access to expertise, equipment and collaborative networks has long been central to ANFF’s mission. For François, that support has been part of his own research journey and the work of his research group for many years.
Reflecting on his time with ANFF, François spoke of the network’s importance to both his own work and the wider research community.
“It has been a privilege to be the NSW Node Director for the last 4 years. ANFF has accompanied me over more than a decade of device development and has also been an integral part of the successes of my research group – as it is for countless users.”
“If I helped ANFF solidify its reputation as a serious and indispensable scientific network, I have accomplished a large part of the responsibility entrusted to me. For that, I can honestly thank all our staff.”
François’ contribution to ANFF reflects a relationship that extended far beyond a leadership role. As a researcher, technology developer and long-time user of the network, he experienced firsthand the value that ANFF brings to Australia’s research community and helped guide that capability for future users.
ANFF thanks François for his contribution to ANFF-NSW and the broader ANFF network and wishes him every success in his future endeavours.
Posted 27 July 2026