SPOTLIGHT: DR JIM THOMPSON PSM

Celebrating Dr Jim Thompson PSM: A Legacy of Leadership in STEM and Culture

We recently caught up with long-time supporter of Inspiring Australia Queensland (IAQ) and outgoing IAQ Reference Group member, Dr Jim Thompson PSM, CEO of the Queensland Museum, as he prepares for retirement. While we congratulate Jim on this milestone, we also want to acknowledge his remarkable contributions to STEM engagement in Queensland.

Q1. Looking back on your tenure, what moments stand out as defining achievements for the Museum under your leadership?

It’s hard to believe it’s been eight years. I came to the Museum in September 2017, initially in an interim role to help steady the ship during a challenging period. That interim role lasted twelve months, and by then I was deeply inspired by the Museum’s potential, I applied for the permanent position and was fortunate to be appointed.

One of the achievements I’m most proud of is the focus on our exhibition programs, including the development of our own exhibitions. An increase in the gallery from 600 to 900 square metres has enabled us to host major international exhibitions like NASA – A Human Adventure, and Dinosaurs of Patagonia. More recently, we launched Croc! Lost Giants to Living Legends – a home-grown exhibition in partnership with two other museums – that showcases Queensland’s unique biodiversity.

Hosting the World Science Festival for the past decade has also been a highlight. It’s been a powerful platform for sharing science with communities across Queensland.

Q2. How did you balance the Museum’s scientific mission with its cultural and community responsibilities?

The Museum is a complex organisation – four campuses, vast collections, and active research programs. Balancing these elements has been challenging, but I’m proud of the partnerships we’ve built and the trust we’ve earned. The Museum is now seen as an independent and reliable institution.

Every floor at Queensland Museum Kurilpa has been revitalised, and in 2023 we welcomed a record 2.5 million visitors. This year, we’re on track for around 2.3 million. Science is embedded in everything we do, from our exhibitions to the Museum shop.

Our publication In Search of Ancient Queensland, now in its second edition, recently won a Whitley Award. It’s a stunning resource that showcases Queensland’s geological history and fossil holotypes in extraordinary detail. It’s accessible to both experts and curious readers, and I highly recommend it.

Q3. What challenges did you face in modernising the Museum’s role in a rapidly changing Queensland, and how did you navigate them?

We’ve faced, and continue to face, significant challenges. One of the most important has been addressing reconciliation with First Nations communities, particularly around collections and engagement. We’ve committed to working in deep consultation with Traditional Owners to acknowledge past wrongs and elevate First Nations cultures to their rightful place in Queensland, Australia, and globally.

It’s a journey, and while there’s still much to do, I’m proud of the progress we’ve made.

Q4. Reflecting on your involvement with Inspiring Australia Queensland, what stands out to you?

Inspiring Australia Queensland is a powerful vehicle for STEM engagement. It’s been rewarding to see diverse groups from across the state collaborate to ensure that the incredible work happening in science is shared widely. Being involved as a host, chair, and Reference Group member has been a privilege, and I’m confident the initiative will continue to thrive.

Thank you, Jim, in closing, we would like to extend our deepest thanks for your visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to science, culture, and community. Your legacy at the Queensland Museum and his contributions to Inspiring Australia Queensland have left an indelible mark on STEM engagement across the state. We wish you all the very best for the next chapter and thank you sincerely for your service and inspiration.