Thas Ampalavanapillai Nirmalathas, FTSE FIEAust F.Optica GAICD

Initiator

DISC Type : Di

Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology at University of Melbourne

Australia

Overview

Thas Ampalavanapillai Nirmalathas is the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology at the University of Melbourne, where he is also a Professor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. His research focuses on communications technologies and networks, including microwave photonics and optical-wireless network integration. He has held numerous leadership roles and champions interdisciplinary research and innovation.

He is passionate about nurturing the next generation of engineers, emphasizing the need for entrepreneurial mindsets and data-driven approaches like AI. He actively supports entrepreneurial activities within the university community and advocates for strong collaboration between academia and industry to solve complex problems and drive innovation.

He co-founded the Melbourne Accelerator Program (MAP) in 2012, the first university-aligned startup accelerator in Australia, which has since supported over 100 startups.

Personality Overview

Confident

Risk-Accepting

Conviction Driven

They usually prefer to drive the conversation. They respond well to objective pitches but also attach some value to relationships. They don’t mind taking a stand if they believe in something.

Topics They Care About

Next-Gen Engineering

Advocates for training future engineers with entrepreneurial mindsets and skills in AI, data-driven approaches, and sustainability to meet evolving industry demands.

University Startups

Co-founded and directed the Melbourne Accelerator Program (MAP) to support and mentor startups emerging from the university community, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship.

Future Network Technologies

His research focuses on optical-wireless network integration, photonic computing, and microwave photonics, contributing to advancements in high-speed communications.

Next-Gen Engineering: Advocates for training future engineers with entrepreneurial mindsets and skills in AI, data-driven approaches, and sustainability to meet evolving industry demands.

University Startups: Co-founded and directed the Melbourne Accelerator Program (MAP) to support and mentor startups emerging from the university community, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship.

Future Network Technologies: His research focuses on optical-wireless network integration, photonic computing, and microwave photonics, contributing to advancements in high-speed communications.

Media Appearances

FEIT Dean Prof Thas Nirmalathas – Year End Message. Featured in Facebook (University of Melbourne Faculty of Engineering and IT)

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Professor Thas Nirmalathas appointed Dean of Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology. Featured in University of Melbourne Newsroom

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Professor Thas Nirmalathas, University of Melbourne – Engineering Practice Research Summit Abstract. Featured in University of Melbourne – Engineering

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FEIT Dean Prof Thas Nirmalathas – Year End Message. Featured in Facebook (University of Melbourne Faculty of Engineering and IT)

Professor Thas Nirmalathas appointed Dean of Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology. Featured in University of Melbourne Newsroom

Professor Thas Nirmalathas, University of Melbourne – Engineering Practice Research Summit Abstract. Featured in University of Melbourne – Engineering

Work History

12-2023

Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology at University of Melbourne

9-2022

Advisor, Tokyo Tech Academy for Super Smart Society at Tokyo Institute of Technology

12-2021 - 12-2023

Deputy Dean (Research), Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology at University of Melbourne

2-2021 - 2-2024

Chair, IEEE Photonics Society Emerging Technologies Taskforce at IEEE Photonics Society

1-2021 - 12-2023

Chair, Research Council and Board Director, Oceania Cyber Security Centre at Oceania Cyber Security Centre #OCSC

Education

7-2025 - 1-2026

Graduate of AICD from Australian Institute of Company Directors

1994 - 1997

PhD from University of Melbourne

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 22 Location : Australia Job Level : N/A Designation : Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology at University of Melbourne

<div class="break-inside-avoid"><h1 class="sect-head" style="display:inline-flex; align-items:center"><div data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom" title="" data-original-title="DISC profile is one of the most popular behavioral assessment frameworks in use. It is especially useful in understanding workplace behavior and how different people approach similar situations differently.">DISC Profile : Thas Ampalavanapillai's Key Traits </div></h1><div class="disc_main personality_container" style="display: flex;align-items: center;justify-content: center;"><figure class="highcharts-figure"> <div class="frrole_circle_label" style="position: absolute;top: calc(50% - 67.5px);left: calc(50% - 66.5px);">Di</div> <div data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom" title="" data-original-title="Dominance(D) reflects how goal and task oriented a person is and her ability to accomplish results, irrespective of how demanding the circumstances might be. Those scoring high tend to be motivated by winning, competition and success and can be described as direct, demanding and strong willed." style="position: absolute;top: -4%;left: calc(50% - 20px);z-index: 2;cursor: pointer; border-radius: 50%; color:#fff;background: linear-gradient(360deg, #f1828d, #d2527f); height: 30px;width: 30px;font-size: 14px;align-items: center;justify-content: center;display: flex;font-weight: bold;opacity:1">D</div><div class="disclabel1" data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom" title="" data-original-title="Influence(I) reflects the degree to which a person prefers to work by influencing or persuading others. Those scoring high tend to be people oriented, are motivated by social recognition and building relationships and can be described as warm and enthusiastic in general." style="position: absolute;right: 5%;top: calc(50% - 20px);z-index: 2;cursor: pointer; border-radius: 50%; color:#fff;background: linear-gradient(270deg, #fad859, #f7ca18); height: 30px;width: 30px;font-size: 14px;align-items: center;justify-content: center;display: flex;font-weight: bold;opacity:1">I</div><div data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom" title="" data-original-title="Steadiness(S) reflects the degree to which a person is likely to focus on cooperation, support and taking everyone along. Those scoring high tend to be consistent and calm, are excited about the opportunity to collaborate and partner and could sometimes be indecisive or overly accommodating." style="position: absolute;bottom: -4%;left: calc(50% - 20px);z-index: 2;cursor: pointer; border-radius: 50%; color:#fff; background: linear-gradient(180deg, #b7f4d8, #66cc99);height: 30px;width: 30px;font-size: 14px;align-items: center;justify-content: center;display: flex;font-weight: bold;opacity:1">S</div><div class="disclabel2" data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom" title="" data-original-title="Calculativeness(C) reflects the degree to which a person is likely to be cautious, systematic and analytical. Those scoring high tend to emphasise quality and accuracy, enjoy showing off their expertise or challenging assumptions but can sometimes overanalyze things and be overcritical." style="position: absolute;left: 5%;top: calc(50% - 20px);z-index: 2;cursor: pointer; border-radius: 50%; color:#fff; background: linear-gradient(90deg, #848ccf, #524eb7);height: 30px;width: 30px;font-size: 14px;align-items: center;justify-content: center;display: flex;font-weight: bold;opacity:1">C</div><div style="position: absolute;top: calc(50% - 106.5px);left: calc(50% - 106.5px);border-radius:50%;border: 1.5px dotted #c8c6c6;padding:105px"></div><div style="position: absolute;top: calc(50% - 135.5px);left: calc(50% - 135.5px);border-radius:50%;border: 1.5px dotted #c8c6c6;padding:133px"></div> <div id="disc_container"></div> </figure><div class="row traits-row" style="position: relative;width:70%;justify-content:flex-end;margin-right:10px"><div class="personality-cards col-md-10"><div class="personality-head">Dominance</div>Dominance(D) reflects how goal and task oriented a person is and her ability to accomplish results, irrespective of how demanding the circumstances might be. Those scoring high tend to be motivated by winning, competition and success and can be described as direct, demanding and strong willed.</div><div class="personality-cards col-md-10"><div class="personality-head">Influence</div>Influence(I) reflects the degree to which a person prefers to work by influencing or persuading others. Those scoring high tend to be people oriented, are motivated by social recognition and building relationships and can be described as warm and enthusiastic in general.</div></div></div></div><div class="break-inside-avoid"><h1 class="sect-head" style="display:inline-flex; align-items:center"><div data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom" title="" data-original-title="OCEAN personality assessment, or Big 5 personality traits model, is the second most well-known behavioral assessment framework after MBTI. It provides a holistic way of understanding how people are and what to expect of them.">OCEAN Profile : Thas Ampalavanapillai's Key Traits </div></h1><div class="ocean_main personality_container" style="display: flex;align-items: center;justify-content: center;"><figure class="highcharts-figure"> <div class="frrole_circle_label" style="position: absolute;top: calc(50% - 67.5px);left: calc(50% - 66.5px);">ace</div> <div data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom" title="" data-original-title="Openness(O) reflects the degree of intellectual curiosity, a desire to seek new experiences and a preference for novelty and variety. Those scoring high tend to be inventive, curious and open to trying new things whereas those scoring low tend to be consistent, cautious and more realistic in their approach." style="position: absolute;top: -7%;left: calc(50% - 12px);z-index: 2;cursor: pointer; border-radius: 50%; color:#fff; background: linear-gradient(90deg, #963694, rgb(175,79,173));height: 30px;width: 30px;font-size: 14px;align-items: center;justify-content: center;display: flex;font-weight: bold;opacity:0.72">O</div><div data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom" title="" data-original-title="Conscientiousness(C) reflects the degree of self-discipline, focus on doing things in a planned manner and acting dutifully. Those scoring high are usually efficient, organized and focused whereas those scoring low tend to be easy-going, spontaneous and unreliable at times." style="position: absolute;right: 4%;top: calc(50% - 70px);z-index: 2;cursor: pointer; border-radius: 50%; color:#fff; background: linear-gradient(180deg, #f15a22, rgb(255,115,59));height: 30px;width: 30px;font-size: 14px;align-items: center;justify-content: center;display: flex;font-weight: bold;opacity:0.72">C</div><div data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom" title="" data-original-title="Extraversion(E) reflects the degree of assertiveness, sociability that an individual exhibits. People scoring high on extraversion tend to be outgoing, energetic and talkative whereas those scoring tend to be reserved, quiet and thoughtful, especially in social settings." style="position: absolute;bottom: 3%;left: calc(50% - -93px);z-index: 2;cursor: pointer; border-radius: 50%; color:#fff; background: linear-gradient(270deg, #bf55ec, rgb(216,110,255));height: 30px;width: 30px;font-size: 14px;align-items: center;justify-content: center;display: flex;font-weight: bold;opacity:0.72">E</div><div data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom" title="" data-original-title="Agreeableness(A) reflects the degree of compassion, cooperation and general friendliness in a person. Those scoring high are mostly even-tempered, pleasant and easy to convince whereas those scoring low tend to challenge and question things and are likely to have a contrarian attitude." style="position: absolute;left: 17%;top: calc(50% - -127px);z-index: 2;cursor: pointer; border-radius: 50%; color:#fff; background: linear-gradient(360deg, #be5683, rgb(215,111,156));height: 30px;width: 30px;font-size: 14px;align-items: center;justify-content: center;display: flex;font-weight: bold;opacity:0.72">A</div><div data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom" title="" data-original-title="Emotional Stability(ES) refers to the degree to which one can experience unpleasant emotions like anger, anxiety etc. easily. Those scoring high tend to be calm, stable and are not perturbed easily whereas those scoring low can be passionate, excitable and have low impulse control, especially under stressful circumstances. (Emotional Stability is same as Neuroticism rated on a reverse scale)" style="position: absolute;left: 5%;top: calc(50% - 70px);z-index: 2;cursor: pointer; border-radius: 50%; color:#fff; background: linear-gradient(360deg, #f62459, rgb(255,61,114));height: 30px;width: 30px;font-size: 14px;align-items: center;justify-content: center;display: flex;font-weight: bold;opacity:0.72">N</div><div style="position: absolute;top: calc(50% - 106.5px);left: calc(50% - 106.5px);border-radius:50%;border: 1.5px dotted #c8c6c6;padding:105px"></div><div style="position: absolute;top: calc(50% - 135.5px);left: calc(50% - 135.5px);border-radius:50%;border: 1.5px dotted #c8c6c6;padding:133px"></div> <div id="ocean_container"></div> </figure><div class="row traits-row" style="position: relative;width:70%;justify-content:flex-end;margin-right:10px"><div class="personality-cards col-md-10"><div class="personality-head">Agreeableness</div>Agreeableness(A) reflects the degree of compassion, cooperation and general friendliness in a person. Those scoring high are mostly even-tempered, pleasant and easy to convince whereas those scoring low tend to challenge and question things and are likely to have a contrarian attitude.</div><div class="personality-cards col-md-10"><div class="personality-head">Conscientiousness</div>Conscientiousness(C) reflects the degree of self-discipline, focus on doing things in a planned manner and acting dutifully. Those scoring high are usually efficient, organized and focused whereas those scoring low tend to be easy-going, spontaneous and unreliable at times.</div><div class="personality-cards col-md-10"><div class="personality-head">Extraversion</div>Extraversion(E) reflects the degree of assertiveness, sociability that an individual exhibits. People scoring high on extraversion tend to be outgoing, energetic and talkative whereas those scoring tend to be reserved, quiet and thoughtful, especially in social settings.</div></div></div><hr class="divider-hr" style="margin-bottom:20px"></div>

Thas Ampalavanapillai Nirmalathas, FTSE FIEAust F.Optica GAICD

Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology at University of Melbourne

Australia

Overview

Personality Overview

Topics They Care About

Media Appearances

Work History

Education

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

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Insights For Selling To Thas Ampalavanapillai

During A Call Or A Meeting

When Cold Calling

Pattern Interrupt: Confident style, with a mix of informality and formality gets their attention.

Pace: Speak slightly fast. Sound like a ‘gets shit done’ person.

Tone: Do not sound too eager, as if you have met a friend suddenly after a long time. Keep the tone calm but confident.

Tactics To Win: Strong words, focus on results, respectful confidence

Mistakes To Avoid: Apologizing, nervousness, information overload, social proof

Making The Ask: Confidently, ask for 10-15 minutes. Allude to the results and outcomes that are possible. They care about the ends more than the means.

Subconscious Driver: Results and outcomes are what matter to them. Any credible shot at getting results will appeal to them quickly.

Greeting: Thas Ampalavanapillai, this is [user_fname] at [user_companynamefirsttwowords].

Opener: In 30 seconds if I could share how 100% of your sellers could kick ass this year, can I go for it?

Introduction: We have built an AI that predicts exactly what would matter to your buyer before you even meet them.

Ask: Can I put 15 minutes on your calendar to show you how this changes outcomes for you?

Close: [time1] on [date1] sounds good? Or would you prefer [time2] on [date2]? And [prospect_email] works well?

When Writing An Email

Subject: Exciting, direct

Salutation: No

Greeting: No (Or say something unique)

Emojis/GIFs:

Bullet Points: Could use

Closing Line: Informally state your ask

Complimentary Close: Unique, casual

Tone of Words: Informal, direct

Overall Messaging: Focused on personal achievement

Length of Mail: Short

While Negotiating & Closing

The secret to closing fast with Thas Ampalavanapillai is

Will you ever get a clear answer from Thas Ampalavanapillai

Insights For Deal Planning

How fast (or slow) will Thas Ampalavanapillai move?

Can Thas Ampalavanapillai take some risk or not?

You And Thas Ampalavanapillai

Personality Compatibility

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