Lawrie Davidson graduated BSc (Hons) in Geology, University of Western Australia (1960), then PhD, Cambridge University (1965). He worked in university appointments and in the mineral exploration industry until joining (1975) the foundation staff of Murdoch University in Perth Western Australia, with responsibility for process mineralogy in the Department of Extractive Metallurgy.

His senior administrative appointments at Murdoch included: Dean, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences (1977-79); University Senate (1976-79 and 1989-1998); Academic Council (1975-79; 1984-98; Chair 1989-96); Pro Vice-Chancellor Academic (1989-1996); Pro Vice-Chancellor International (1996-1998).

Over the past 20 years he has worked extensively in international education, including serving six years on the Board of the Academic Consortium of the US-based Council on International Educational Exchange. Since retirement from Murdoch University in 2004, Lawrie has been working at the University of Western Australia and internationally to facilitate study abroad for science and engineering students.