Dr Poole is a world-leading researcher and entrepreneur in photonics over more than 30 years, with achievements covering R&D and the commercialisation of advanced technology, including the promotion of export-competitive Australian industry. He is noted for the successful commercialisation of advanced technology on an international scale. He led the establishment of an export-competitive photonics industry in Australia, with significant contributions in R&D leadership, innovative entrepreneurship and capital-raising. He has founded manufacturing companies in Australia which have generated nearly $800 million in high-value-add export revenues over the past 20 years. He won a Clunies Ross Award in 2013.