Future Arts, Science and Technology Laboratory
Professor Paul Egglestone
Professor Paul Egglestone is an internationally recognized leader, visionary academic, and innovator at the forefront of integrating arts, science, and technology. As the founder and director of FASTLab (Future Arts, Science and Technology Laboratory) Paul has redefined how collaborative research and innovation create meaningful societal impact. His ability to unite technologists, content creators, and communities has established him as a transformative figure in the field.
A Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, the Hunter Medical Research Institute, and the Central Coast Research Institute, his global contributions are celebrated for driving progress across disciplines.Throughout his career, Paul has demonstrated a unique strategic vision, exemplified by the establishment of groundbreaking initiatives such as the Media Innovation Studio and the Civic Drone CentreHis leadership in developing FASTLab reflects a commitment to innovation, guiding its evolution into a hub for transformational research on human behavior, transmedia arts, and technology’s role in society.Paul’s legacy of empowering teams, nurturing partnerships, and championing practical solutions continues to inspire students, researchers, and industry professionals alike. From fostering collaborations with global organizations - from the BBC to Google - to producing over 70 broadcast documentary programs, his work is a testament to the power of visionary leadership in shaping the future of knowledge and innovation.
Professor Mario Minichiello
Internationally Acclaimed Political Artist, Illustrator, and Designer, Professor Mario Minichiello is an award-winning practitioner, academic, and co-founder of FASTlab. With over three decades of experience spanning industry and academia, Mario has established himself as a leading figure in visual communication, design, and illustration. His work, celebrated globally, tackles contemporary issues with striking poignancy and depth, earning him recognition as “one of Britain’s most skilled, perceptive, and provocative illustrators” by Visual Culture in Britain journal.
Mario’s career is marked by a unique ability to bridge art and storytelling. As a visual journalist, he has reported on significant global events, from the Afghanistan war to the Spycatcher Trials, with his work featured in prominent outlets such as the BBC, The Guardian, and The Times. His approach to illustration—what he describes as “slow food, wave after wave of observation”—has not only shaped his practice but also influenced the field of visual journalism. He is the co-author of the seminal book Reportage Illustration: Visual Journalism, which explores the power of illustration to connect people with news and current affairs in profound ways.As a Professor of Design and Creative Arts, Mario has held leadership roles at institutions including Loughborough University, Birmingham City University, and the University of Newcastle (NSW).
His academic work focuses on using visual communication tools—such as design, animation, film, and visual effects—to translate research into real-world impact. He has collaborated with world-leading organizations, including Birmingham Children’s Hospital (UK) and the Hunter Medical Research Institute, to prototype and visualize innovative ideas that drive change. His work in human-centered AI and creative technologies reflects his commitment to shaping the next industrial revolution in ways that enhance human creativity and well-being.A prolific author and researcher, Mario has published numerous books, journal articles, and creative outputs, while also developing intellectual property that bridges art, design, and technology. His passion for collaboration and his ability to open doors—both literally and figuratively—have made him a sought-after partner for impactful projects across industry, government, and academia.Mario’s vision for FASTlab is rooted in the belief that creativity and innovation thrive at the intersection of disciplines. Through his work, he continues to push boundaries, inspire teams, and create solutions that resonate on both local and global scales.
