Eureka Prizes Judges
Judges of the Australian Museum (AM) Eureka Prizes work across a wide range of disciplines and are experts in their respective fields.
Judging process:
- All judges are bound by the Judges Code of Conduct and Conflict of Interest Policy.
- Each prize has its own unique judging panel consisting of a minimum of four people.
- Judging takes place during April, May and June (exact dates vary each year)
- In the first round, judges independently review each entry against the assessment criteria and provide a score and comment/s.
- In the second round, each panel meets via teleconference to discuss their scores and agree on three finalists, including one winner.
- The AM Eureka Prizes team provides administrative support to each panel, but does not play a role in the decision-making process.
Award categories:
The Australian Museum and Eureka Prize partners are deeply grateful to the following individuals for contributing their time and expertise to the judging of the 2024 AM Eureka Prizes.
Research and Innovation
Eureka Prize for Environmental Research
Dr Emma Camp, Future Reefs Team Leader, University of Technology Sydney
Dr Emma Camp is a marine biologist and the Team Leader of the Future Reefs Team at the University of Technology Sydney. Emma is considered a leading coral expert, with her work focused on utilising scientific capacity to help preserve and re-build reefs. She has received numerous awards for her research, including the 2023 WINGS Women in Discovery Award, the 2021 Eureka Prize for Outstanding Early Career Researcher and in 2020 was named a Next Generation Leader by Time Magazine
Dr Mark Eldridge, Senior Principal Research Scientist, Australian Museum Research Institute
Dr Mark Eldridge is a molecular ecologist with over 30 years research experience in phylogeny, taxonomy, population genetics and conservation biology of marsupials and other Australasian terrestrial vertebrates. He currently leads a research group at the Australian Museum Research Institute and is on the Editorial Board of Australian Mammalogy. He has a PhD from Macquarie University and received an ARC Queen Elizabeth II Fellowship.
Professor Bronwyn Gillanders FTSE, Head of School, School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide
Professor Bronwyn Gillanders is currently Head of School of Biological Sciences and has previously been Deputy Dean Research in the Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology. She is a biologist with 30 years of research experience focused primarily on marine ecosystems. She is a fellow of the Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering and serves on several advisory boards related to environmental issues. She is passionate about training the next generation of researchers.
Dr Mark Norman PSM, Chief Scientist Conservation and Climate Action, Parks Victoria
Dr Mark Norman provides strategic leadership for Parks Victoria’s nature conservation programs and climate change response across four million hectares of parks and reserves. His priority is to inform about, and advocate for, the urgent preparation and actions required to meet rapidly increasing climate change impacts on nature, society and economy. Previously Head of Sciences at Museums Victoria, Mark’s research background is in marine biology as well as across wildlife research, biodiversity field surveys and science communication.
Australian Institute of Botanical Science Eureka Prize for Excellence in Botanical Science
Professor Tony Auld, Honorary Professorial Fellow, UNSW and University of Wollongong
Professor Tony Auld is an Honorary Professorial Fellow with both the Center for Ecosystem Science, UNSW and the School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong. He is a recent past President of the Australian Network for Plan Conservation. He has worked in conservation for more than 30 years. Throughout his career, Tony's focus has been to examine how to effectively manage a range of threats impacting the conservation of plant species and their habitats across a range of ecosystems, from arid to coastal to offshore islands.
Dr Margaret Byrne PSM, Executive Director, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions
Dr Margaret Byrne is an executive science leader in the WA government leading a strong science group providing evidence-based approaches to conservation management and policy. She is recognised as an international expert in genomics whose research informs biodiversity conservation strategies. She has a PhD in Botany from The University of Western Australia and holds adjunct professorial positions at The University of Western Australia and Curtin University. She remains active as a conservation scientist in conjunction with her senior leadership role and was recognised for her science leadership with a Public Service Medal in 2023.
Professor David Cantrill, Chief Botanist and Executive Director Science, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
Before joining the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Professor David Cantrill worked as Senior Curator at the Swedish Museum of Natural History and as a Senior Research Scientist at the British Antarctic Survey. He serves on several advisory boards including the Atlas of Living Australia. His research focus is on the evolutionary history of the Southern Hemisphere flora, and integrating the fossil and living record to understand current patterns of plant distribution. He is passionate about plants and their conservation as without plants there is no life on our planet.
Professor Michelle Leishman FRSN, Distinguished Professor, Macquarie University; and Director, MQ Smart Green Cities
Professor Michelle Leishman is a plant ecologist with over 30 years' research experience on invasive plants, vegetation response and adaptation to climate change, restoration ecology, plant conservation and urban greening. She leads a research group in the School of Natural Sciences at Macquarie University and is the Director of MQ Smart Green Cities. Michelle is a Trustee of the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust and Chair of the Australian Institute of Botanical Sciences Advisory Council. She is also a Director of Bush Heritage Australia and a member of the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Advisory Panel.
Professor Brett Summerell AM, Acting Chief Executive and Chief Scientist, Botanic Gardens of Sydney
Professor Brett Summerell has been employed at the Royal Botanic Gardens for 34 years, and since 2004 has had positions leading the science, education and conservation programs. He is also Adjunct Professor at Kansas State University, the University of Sydney and a Visiting Professor at the University of Johannesburg. Brett maintains a research interest in plant diseases and fungi and has published over 150 refereed papers and books in this area.
Aspire Scholarship Eureka Prize for Excellence in Interdisciplinary Scientific Research
Ms Sarah Casey, Associate Director Business Development, Business Events Perth
Sarah Casey joined the Business Events Perth team in 2021, with a strong background in business development and venue sales, she brings 20 years of experience in securing and hosting business events to her role as Associate Director Business Development - Associations at Business Events Perth.
Dr Sharon Downes, Senior Principal Research Scientist, CSIRO
Dr Sharon Downes leads the Integrated Crop Management Group in the Systems research program of CSIRO Agriculture and Food. This group delivers innovative farming systems that improve agricultural productivity and resilience under economic and environmental variability. Sharon has a scientific track record in crop protection and pest management science. She has active research interests in understanding how the ecology and evolution of resistance in agricultural pests impacts crop sustainability and preparedness for key national biosecurity threats.
Professor Neville Nicholls FAA, Emeritus Professor, Monash University
Professor Neville Nicholls moved to Monash University after 35 years with the Bureau of Meteorology where he researched many aspects of climate. At Monash, he has continued his research into how and why the climate is changing, as well as designing systems to help us adapt to climate change and variability by improving our ability to forecast and cope with droughts, bushfires, heatwaves, and other climate impacts.
Professor Laura Poole-Warren AM FTSE FAIMBE FRSN FBSE, UNSW Sydney; and Director, Tyree Institute of Health Engineering
Professor Laura Poole-Warren leads a research group focused on design and development of novel materials for neural electrodes and other soft-tissue interfaces, and on 3D engineered neural tissue models. A key theme of her work is on design of new biosynthetic materials and understanding of material and device interactions with cells and tissues. Throughout her career, she has worked in academia, industry, and government bodies.
Professor Colin Raston AO FAA, Professor in Clean Technology, Flinders University
Professor Colin Raston's current research covers green chemistry, materials chemistry, nanotechnology, self-assembly, and continuous flow thin film microfluidics. In 2015 he shared the Ig Nobel Prize in Chemistry for "partially unboiling" an egg, in 2016 he was Appointed an Officer in of the Order of Australia, and in 2018 he was elected Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science.
Australian Research Data Commons Eureka Prize for Excellence in Research Software
Professor Elanor Huntington, Executive Director - Digital, National Facilities & Collections, CSIRO
Professor Elanor Huntington has stewardship of a range of CSIRO business lines including Data61, Space and Astronomy, and National Collections and Marine Infrastructure and is a member of the CSIRO Executive Team. She leads major national research infrastructure and the data-focused research, development and digital capability of CSIRO. Elanor holds a PhD in experimental quantum optics and has held Board appointments to Industry Innovation and Science Australia, Significant Capital Ventures, Questacon, Australian Academy of Technology & Engineering, AARNet, Pawsey Supercomputing, and NCI Australia. She is a Fellow of ATSE and an Honorary Fellow of Engineers Australia.
Distinguished Professor Kerrie Mengersen, Director, Centre for Data Science, Queensland University of Technology
Distinguished Professor Kerrie Mengersen is an elected member of the Australian Academy of Sciences and the Australian Academy of Social Sciences, and is a Vice-President of the International Statistical Institute. Kerrie is passionate about developing methods to break open data and reveal insights that can help address critical challenges in health, environment, society and industry. She can be found perched on a stool at the intersection of statistics, machine learning, AI, and technology, and being constantly amazed and challenged by the current and future-promised traffic.
Dr Ian Oppermann, Co-founder, ServiceGen; and Industry Professor, University of Technology Sydney
Dr. Ian Oppermann is a founding director of ServiceGen, Government's Strategic Partner for Trusted Service Transformation. From 2015 until 2023, Ian was the NSW Government’s Chief Data Scientist helping transform the way NSW understands and uses data and AI. Ian has 30 years experience in the ICT sector and has led organizations with more than 300 people, delivering products and outcomes that have impacted hundreds of millions of people globally. He has held senior management roles in Europe and Australia at Nokia, Nokia Siemens Networks, and CSIRO.
Professor Liz Sonenberg, Pro Vice Chancellor (Systems Innovation), University of Melbourne
Professor Liz Sonenberg is a researcher in artificial intelligence, an experienced university leader, and board director. She was the recipient of the Distinguished Research Contribution in the 2020 Australasian AI Awards and is currently a member of the international Standing Committee of the One Hundred Year Study on Artificial Intelligence (AI100). Liz has held advisory board roles in several national digital research infrastructure initiatives and is the inaugural Chair of the National Research Infrastructure Advisory Group.
Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre Eureka Prize for Infectious Diseases Research
Professor Dee Carter, Professor of Microbiology, University of Sydney
Professor Dee Carter conducts research on fungal pathogens and is particularly interested in the intersection between fungal ecology and human disease. Her lab also works to develop novel antifungal strategies and therapies, with a focus on using natural products as synergents to enhance conventional treatments.
Professor Elizabeth Hartland, Director and CEO, Hudson Institute of Medical Research; and Head, Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University
Professor Elizabeth Hartland is a leading Australian microbiologist with a research interest in defining the strategies used by pathogenic bacteria to evade immune detection. She has held a Royal Society/NHMRC Howard Florey Fellowship in the Department of Biochemistry, Imperial College London and Lecturer/Senior Lecturer positions at Monash University. She was an inaugural Australian Research Council Future Fellow at the University of Melbourne and subsequently held key leadership positions as at the Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity. She is a current member of NHMRC Council (2021-2024), President Elect of the Australian Association of Medical Research Institutes (AAMRI) and Chair of the Victorian Chapter of AAMRI.
Professor Mark Schembri, Director and Group Leader, IMB Centre for Superbug Solutions, University of Queensland
Professor Mark Schembri's expertise lies in molecular microbiology and bacterial pathogenesis, and he investigates how antibiotic resistant uropathogenic E. coli cause urinary tract and bloodstream infections, diseases of major significance to human health.
Professor Glen Ulett, Professor of Microbiology, Griffith University
Professor Ulett obtained his PhD in Microbiology from James Cook University (Australia), completed post-doctoral research at St Jude Children's Research Hospital, the University of Queensland, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Currently, he is Professor of Microbiology at Griffith University where he leads a research team on bacterial pathogenesis and mechanisms of host response to infection.
ANSTO Eureka Prize for Innovative Use of Technology
Dr Nick Cerneaz GAICD, Head of Engineering, Australian Astronomical Optics, Macquarie University
Dr Nick Cerneaz has over 30-years experience commercializing and deploying academic ideas, turning them into working products, finding markets and making societal contributions. Today he leads the engineering endeavours of the world class Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) group developing unique scientific instrumentation for the professional astronomy research market. This builds on earlier work in cryogenics and heavy production environments in pulp/paper/packing and fleet maintenance, medical device developments and industrial computer vision applications.
Dr Elliot Duff, Robotics Research Consultant, 7thWave Consulting
For more than two decades Dr Elliot Duff has been involved in field robotics research and the development of navigation systems that allow large machines to operate autonomously in hostile and unstructured environments. This led to the development of Zededee - the worlds first hand held mobile 3D mapping system. More recently, he was Research Director of CSIRO's Autonomous Systems Program with interests in field robotics, sensor networks and cognitive systems, overseeing the emerging market portfolios of Spatial AI and the Industrial Internet. Today , he is an independent research consultant with a passion for robotics, innovation and manufacturing.
Dr Karina Meredith, Director Environment Research and Technology Group, ANSTO
Dr Karina Meredith is an isotope hydrogeochemist with over 20 years of experience and has used various isotopic tracers to investigate water resource suitability and sustainability. Karina has a proven track record of delivering high-impact science and industry-aligned outcomes. She is recognised internationally for her contribution to water resource projects and collaborates with domestic and international universities and government departments.
Professor Hala Zreiqat AM FAA FTSE FAHMS FRSN FIOR, Professor of Biomedical Engineering, University of Sydney
Professor Hala Zreiqat AM is a trailblazer in the field of biomaterials and tissue engineering; a national leader in advancing collaborative research ventures between academics, clinicians, and industry in the field of musculoskeletal and biomaterials research. The focus of her lab is on the development of novel engineered synthetic materials and 3D printed platforms for regenerative medicine. Amongst other notable national and international awards, she was the 2019 ANSTO Eureka Prize for Innovative Use of Technology winner.
Macquarie University Eureka Prize for Outstanding Early Career Researcher
Professor Hannah Brown, Executive Director, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Department of Primary Industries and Regions, South Australian Government
Professor Hannah Brown initially trained and worked as an academic and now enjoys the challenge of sitting at interface between science and the rest of society, helping to turn ideas into impact through relationships, partnership and deals with industry, end-users, and key stakeholders. In her current role, she seeks to remove and break down barriers which would otherwise prevent turning new knowledge into action. She previously led Strategy, Innovation and Operations at the Victorian Heart Institute and is a former Board Director for Women in STEMM Australia.
Associate Professor Melissa Hart, ARC Centre of Excellence for Climate Extremes, UNSW Sydney
Associate Professor Melissa Hart has developed a national, cross-institutional graduate program which has reimagined the traditional Australian PhD. The program has provided over 160 PhD students with the skills, knowledge, and experience fundamental to developing world leading climate science researchers. Her research looks at the impact of cities on climate and climate on cities, and the meteorological controls on air pollution. She is a strong advocate for gender equity in science and is a former chair of the Australian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society's equity and diversity committee.
Dr Nick Hong Seng Lee, Research Manager, CSIRO
Dr Nick Hong Seng Lee is a biomedical engineer with a keen interest in emerging medical technologies and research translation. Currently a Research Manager at CSIRO, he develops strategies and leads projects with commercial interests within the Minimising Antimicrobial Resistance Mission. Prior to joining CSIRO, he worked in the regulated MedTech industry leading the design and development of a novel vaccine delivery technology. He holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Queensland.
Professor Grant Hose, Associate Dean - Innovation, Macquarie University
Professor Grant Hose is an aquatic ecologist and ecotoxicologist. As Associate Dean, Innovation in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, he brings experience working in industry, government and academia to facilitate successful collaborative partnerships. In research, Grant and his team examine the response of groundwater ecosystems, invertebrate and microbial communities to environmental change, and through field surveys and laboratory manipulative experiments they develop tools for assessing change in ecosystem health and condition.
Mrs Pamela Naidoo-Ameglio, Group Executive Nuclear Operations & Nuclear Medicine, ANSTO; and Science Advisory Board Member, Australia Museum
Pamela Naidoo-Ameglio is an executive leader, scientist, board member and volunteer. Her background in geosciences, mining and exploration, technology implementation, people development and stakeholder engagement has contributed to the mining industry and Australia’s nuclear industry for the past 30 years. She is responsible for the OPAL research reactor, nuclear medicine production and radioactive waste at ANSTO. Pamela inspires teams to strive for safe, sustainable operations and continuous improvement and innovation. She is a committed mentor and advocate for STEM and diversity.
Department of Defence Eureka Prize for Outstanding Science in Safeguarding Australia
Professor Lorenzo Faraone AM FAIP FIEEE FAA FTSE, University of Western Australia
Professor Lorenzo Faraone has published 300+ journal papers, and supervised 40+ PhD student completions. He is Head of the Microelectronics Research Group (MRG) at the University of Western Australia (UWA), and Director of the WA Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility (ANFF). Prior to joining UWA, he worked on silicon CMOS-based microelectronics with RCA Labs in Princeton, USA. Since joining UWA he has worked on compound semiconductor materials and devices, as well as optical MEMS technologies for infrared spectroscopy and imaging applications.
Dr Sanjay Mazumdar, Executive Director, Defence Trailblazer
Dr Sanjay Mazumdar is the Executive Director of The Defence Trailblazer, a $250 million enterprise powered by the University of Adelaide and UNSW, with funding from the Australian Government through the Trailblazer Universities Program, as well as university and industry partners. Prior to this role, Sanjay spent over 30 years in technology leadership including as a Partner at KPMG, CEO of Data to Decisions CRC and Head of Engineering at BAE Systems.
Professor Kate Stevens FRSN, Director, MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour & Development, Western Sydney University
Professor Kate Stevens, a cognitive scientist, is Director of MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour & Development at Western Sydney University. The MARCS Institute investigates humans interacting with each other, their environment, and technology.
Kathryn Toohey AM CSC, Director
Kathryn Toohey retired from the Australian Army after 36 years service in early 2023. She attained the rank of Major General having specialised in capability development for the last 20 years of her career. In her last appointment this included consideration of the impact of emerging technologies on military modernisation. She holds an honours degree in Electrical Engineering and several postgraduate qualifications including an Executive Masters in Business Administration.
UNSW Eureka Prize for Scientific Research
Professor Les Field AM FAA FRACI FRSC FRSN, Professor of Chemistry, UNSW
Professor Les Field AM is a Professor of Chemistry at UNSW. He was Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Senior Vice-President of UNSW from February 2016 to December 2017. He was awarded a DSc in 1991 by the University of Sydney. He was Head of Chemistry at the University of Sydney from 1997 to 2001 and an elected member of the Senate of the University of Sydney from 2003 to 2005. He was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2011 for his services to Chemistry and to Higher Education in Australia.
Professor David Jamieson FAIP FIOP, Professor of Physics, University of Melbourne; and Honorary Professor, University of Manchester
Professor David Jamieson applies ion beam physics to build a revolutionary quantum computer constructed in silicon in the Australian Research Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computation and Communication Technology. He has served as President of the Australian Institute of Physics and holds a Royal Society Wolfson visiting Fellowship to investigate engineered atomic quantum spins with UK colleagues. He often gives public lectures on fundamental issues in physics.
Professor Helene Marsh AO FAA FTSE FQA FRZS, Emeritus Professor, James Cook University
Professor Helene Marsh is a conservation biologist with 50 years’ experience in research into threatened species conservation, management and policy, especially tropical coastal and riverine megafauna. Her contributions have been recognised with an Order of Australia and Fellowships of the Australian Academies of Science and Technological Sciences and Engineering, the Royal Zoological Society and the Queensland Academy of Arts and Sciences and several prestigious international awards.
Professor Sarah A Robertson AO FAA FAHMS, NHMRC Investigator Fellow, University of Adelaide
Professor Sarah Robertson is an NHMRC Investigator Fellow and biomedical scientist at the Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide. She is an internationally-awarded reproduction scientist, with expertise on the events of conception and early development. Sarah is an elected Fellow of The Australian Academy of Science and the Australian Academy for Health and Medical Sciences, a Fellow of the Society for Reproductive Biology, and a Distinguished Fellow of the Society for Reproduction (US). In 2024 she was awarded for distinguished service to medical research, particularly reproductive biology and immunology and to professional societies.
University of Sydney Eureka Prize for Sustainability Research
Associate Professor Emma Aisbett, Australian National University
Emma Aisbett is Associate Professor at the ANU School of Law and Associate Director (Research) of the ANU Zero-Carbon Energy for the Asia-Pacific initiative. With degrees in Chemical Engineering (B.Eng. UNSW), Environmental Change and Management (MSc., Oxon.) and Economics (PhD, Berkeley) Emma brings an innately interdisciplinary perspective to research on sustainability. In addition to publishing in leading academic journals, she collaborates and provides expertise to leading organisations including the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, OECD, UNCTAD, WEF and Australian Government.
Penny Barker, General Manager Sustainability, Stockland
Penny has more than 20 years’ experience in sustainability and environmental leadership, spanning a range of sectors including government, property, infrastructure, transportation and energy. She holds deep experience in climate transition planning and disclosures and is passionate about collaborating to accelerate net zero and circular economy outcomes in a way that is fair and equitable for communities. In her current role she is responsible for setting Stockland’s ESG Strategy and ensuring integration across the business, together with effective engagement and reporting on outcomes to stakeholders. She supports and advises the business on execution in an evolving and complex market.
Mr Simon Duffy AM, Executive Director Taronga Zoo, Taronga Conservation Society Australia
Simon has 25 years' experience working in the zoo and wildlife conservation industry. In the role of Executive Director of Taronga Zoo, Simon is responsible for a world-leading conservation zoo by advocating for experience design, science, conservation, education, and visitor programs that enrich the lives of our local and global communities and inspire solutions and behaviours to combat critical environmental challenges. Simon is passionate about creating better relationships between wildlife and communities and how they can connect and interact for a balanced and sustainable future.
Professor Thomas Maschmeyer FAA FTSE FRACI FRSN MAE, Professor of Chemistry, University of Sydney; and Founder and Director, Gelion plc
In addition to his role at the University of Sydney, Professor Thomas Maschmeyer is Founder and Director of the London-listed Gelion plc (GELN), an energy storage company, and co-founder of the waste upcycler Licella Holdings. After completing his PhD in 1994 he went on to hold positions at the Royal Institution of Great Britain, the University of Cambridge, and the TU Delft’s Institute of Chemical Technology before returning to the University of Sydney as an ARC Federation Fellow. He is a Fellow of three Academies and has received numerous prizes and awards, most recently receiving the ‘Australian Prime Minister's Prize for Innovation’ and the Australian Academy of Science’s David Craig Medal, its highest award in chemistry.
Leadership
Eureka Prize for Emerging Leader in Science
Professor Maria Kavallaris AM FAHMS FRSN, Founding Director Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, UNSW Sydney; and Head of Translational Cancer Nanomedicine, Children's Cancer Institute
Professor Maria Kavallaris is recognised for her innovation in driving multidisciplinary research in cancer nanomedicine. An outstanding scientific leader, she is internationally recognised for her research in cancer biology and therapeutics.
Professor Sharath Sriram, Professor, RMIT University; and President, Science & Technology Australia
Professor Sharath Sriram jointly leads the Functional Materials and Microsystems Research Group at RMIT University. His research transforms discoveries in materials science and electronics into devices and products for high-speed electronics, sensors, and medical devices. He is Director of the Discovery to Devices Facility for scale-up manufacture of medical devices. He actively links academia and industry, to commercialise Australian innovations into products. He is a leader in science research policy and advocacy and is currently President of Science & Technology Australia.
Kylie Walker, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering (ATSE); and Chair, Aged care Research and Industry Innovation Australia (ARIIA)
Ms Kylie Walker works with expert Fellows to lead crucial national conversations and strategy towards a thriving, healthy and connected Australia supported by technology. She's the creator of the acclaimed Superstars of STEM program and the Elevate: Boosting Women in STEM program, a visiting Fellow at the Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science and was Chair of the Australian National Commission for UNESCO. In 2019, she was named in the 100 Women of Influence list by the Australian Financial Review.
Professor Paul Wood AO FTSE, Adjunct Professor, Monash University
Professor Paul Wood AO has led R&D teams for CSIRO, CSL and Pfizer Animal Health (now Zoetis) and was Deputy-Director of the Vaccine Technology CRC. He brought several innovative products to the market, receiving recognition for his work to invent a new diagnostic test for Tuberculosis, including the CSIRO Medal, the Clunies Ross award, made an Officer in the Order of Australia and received the 2022 University of Technology Sydney Eureka Prize for Outstanding Mentor of Young Researchers.
Eureka Prize for Leadership in Science
Dr Janin Bredehoeft, Chief Executive Officer, Science Australia Gender Equity (SAGE)
Dr Janin Bredehoeft completed her PhD at the University of Sydney in 2019, analysing the developments of academic labour markets in Germany and Australia. In her former role as Research and Analytics Executive Manager at the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, Dr Bredehoeft led a team responsible for data management, analysis and benchmarking, as well as the research and education function of the agency.
Professor Mark Dodgson AO, Emeritus Professor, University of Queensland; and Executive-in-Residence, Oxford University
Professor Mark Dodgson researches, teaches, and consults on innovation policy and management. Previously at the Science Policy Research Unit, University of Sussex, Australian National University, and the University of Queensland, he is widely published, has extensive business experience, and has researched and taught innovation in over 60 countries. His current research focuses on the Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine and the development of fusion power. He was the winner of the 2007 Eureka Prize for Leadership in Business Innovation.
Julie Ellmers, Associate Director, Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum
As Associate Director of AMRI, leading the Life and Geosciences Branch, Julie Ellmers is dedicated to facilitating the pursuit of high-quality research and conservation efforts, utilising the Australian Museum’s incredible natural and cultural collections. Before joining the Museum, Julie was Chief Operating Officer for the ARC Centre of Excellence in Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH), headquartered at the University of Wollongong.
Dr Katherine Woodthorpe AO FTSE FAICD, President, Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering
Dr Katherine Woodthorpe is an experienced Chair and Non-Executive Director serving on the boards of a variety of organisations including listed, government and for-purpose organisations across a broad range of innovation-dependent industries especially healthcare, renewable energy and climate science. She has been cited as one of Australia's most influential people in innovation and is currently the President of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE).
University of Technology Sydney Eureka Prize for Outstanding Mentor of Researchers
Dr Sue Barell AO FTSE, Independent Chair/Director, Barrell Acumen
Dr Sue Barrell retired in 2018 after 38 years with the Bureau of Meteorology, her final role being the Bureau’s Chief Scientist. Sue contributed significantly to national and international efforts in climate science, climate policy, integrated earth observations, data infrastructure and data policy. Sue continues her commitment to research infrastructure, leadership, diversity and equity through boards and related roles across the scientific, technology and education sectors, and as an advocate for empowering girls and women to pursue science careers and become confident leaders.
Professor David Day FAA, Emeritus Professor, Flinders University
Professor David Day is currently a Mathew Flinders Distinguished Emeritus Professor of Biology at Flinders University. Prior to this, he was Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research) at Flinders University. David has a strong track record over more than 30 years in obtaining research grants and managing successful research groups. He is a fellow of the Australian Academy of Science and a member of the board of the Playford Trust of South Australia.
Associate Professor Bhuva Narayan, Director, Graduate Research, University of Technology Sydney; and Associate Professor, School of Communication, University of Technology Sydney
Associate Professor Bhuva Narayan is a transdisciplinary academic across Information Science, Digital Media Studies, and Social Sciences, with additional expertise in IT, HCI, and UX, and applies this expertise in the context of social justice issues. Before moving to academia, Bhuva spent over two decades in the book industry as a bookstore consultant, development editor, and publisher, and remains a proselytiser for books and learning in all forms. Bhuva was awarded the UTS Vice Chancellor's Research Excellence Award for Supervisor of the Year 2020-2021.
Professor Renae Ryan AM, Professor of Biochemical Pharmacology, University of Sydney
Professor Renae Ryan received her PhD from the University of Sydney in 2004 and completed postdoctoral work with at Columbia University and the National Institutes of Health. Renae leads a research team that investigates the molecular mechanisms of neurotransmitter and amino acid transporters and their role in cancer and neurological diseases, such as episodic ataxia. She has received several awards for scientific excellence, mentoring and outreach including the Nancy Millis Medal from the Australian Academy of Science and the Australian Museum Eureka Prize for Mentoring of Young Researchers in 2023.
Science Engagement
Department of Industry, Science and Resources Eureka Prize for Innovation in Citizen Science
Bridgette Byrne, Manager, Science Policy, Department of Industry Science and Resources
Bridgette Byrne works to encourage all Australians to engage in STEM through her current role in Science Policy at the Department of Industry, Science and Resources. Her work has supported a number of initiatives, including the department’s Women in STEM programs and the Inspiring Australia initiative. Bridgette brings experience to this role from her former positions at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources. Throughout her career she has provided advice on wide range of policy areas including science policy, supply chain policy and biosecurity policy.
Dr Bobby Cerini, Deputy Director and General Manager Science and Learning, Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre of Australia
Dr Bobby Cerini leads Questacon’s science content and creative direction across multiple channels including exhibitions, programs, digital platforms and national networks. Bobby has worked in cultural institutions, science festivals and research organisations across several continents, with a focus on building successful creative enterprise, dynamic engagement campaigns and programs for young people, parents, educators and the community. Bobby sits on the international Advisory Board for ASTRO 3D, and is a member of the international Executive Committee for the Asia Pacific science centre network.
Dr Erin Roger, Sector Lead, Atlas of Living Australia (CSIRO)
Dr Erin Roger is a Sector Lead for the Atlas of Living Australia (based in CSIRO) and works to enhance ALA's approach and engagement with the citizen science and biosecurity sectors. Erin has a PhD in Ecology, is a 2022 Churchill Fellow and graduate of the Institute of Company Directors. Erin is also invested in non-profit leadership and was Chair of the Australian Citizen Science Association, where she oversaw its incorporation.
Dr Vikki Schaffer, Academic Researcher, University of the Sunshine Coast
Dr Vikki Schaffer has a strong interest in adventure and conservation with a particular passion for the marine environment (Sustainable Development Goals 13 and 14). With a transdisciplinary approach aimed at increasing theoretical and practical outcomes, Vikki takes a highly collaborative approach, in both teaching and research, working with industry, government, and community at all levels (Sustainable Development Goal 17). Vikki is a passionate scholar and researcher, community member and volunteer who enthusiastically strives to develop and share her knowledge and expertise to support an inclusive industry that values places and people.
Celestino Eureka Prize for Promoting Understanding of Science
Duncan Challen, General Manager, Business Development, Celestino
Duncan Challen is a global and future oriented leader with significant commercial expertise in building and managing sales and marketing businesses across Asia Pacific, including having spent 3 years in China creating Shell Oil and Gas retail businesses with Chinese Joint Venture Partners. He also has extensive international trade and investment experience, having led the NSW Governments International Investment and Export organisations across 10 international markets. Duncan is now leading Celestino's business development and curation for the $5Billion Sydney Science Park greenfield mixed-use development.
Professor Donna Green, Professor UNSW Sydney
Professor Donna Green is a distinguished scholar in the field of interdisciplinary environmental science, specialising in the renewable energy transition, air pollution, climate change and sustainability. With over two decades of experience in academia, she has published numerous ground-breaking research papers and contributed significantly to the understanding of environmental issues. Professor Green is known for her innovative approaches to teaching and her passion for inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders. Her work has been recognised with several prestigious awards, highlighting her commitment to advancing knowledge in the field.
Professor Joan Leach, Director, Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, Australian National University
Professor Joan Leach has been the Director of CPAS since 2016. Herresearch and teaching centres on theories of the public in sciencecommunication, language and rhetoric in science (both in publicand in technical contexts), and the challenge of ethics in sciencecommunication. Joan is a past president of Australian ScienceCommunicators, a founding member of the American Associationfor the Rhetoric of Science and Technology, and Chair of theNational Committee for History and Philosophy of Science at theAustralian Academy of Science.
Associate Professor Alice Motion, Associate Professor and Deputy Head of School, University of Sydney
Associate Professor Alice Motion is a researcher and science communicator at the University of Sydney's School of Chemistry. Alice leads the Science Communication, Outreach, Participation and Education (SCOPE) Research Group who share the overarching goal of connecting people with science and making research more accessible. Alice is the Deputy Head of School and was awarded the 2020 Celestino Eureka Prize for Promoting Understanding of Science.
Dr Robyn Williams AO FAA, Presenter, The Science Show, ABC’s Radio National; and Deputy Chair, Australian Science Media Centre
Dr Robyn Williams AO is a science journalist and presenter of Radio National’s Ockham’s Razor and The Science Show, one of the longest running programs on Australian radio. In 1993, Robyn was the first journalist elected as a Fellow Member of the Australian Academy of Science. He has honorary doctorates in science and law from a number of Australian universities. During his tenure as President of the Australian Museum Trust he founded the Eureka Prizes.
Australian Museum Eureka Prize for Science Journalism
Jasmine Chambers GAICD, Chair & Co-founder, Ocean Decade Australia; and Director, Provenance Consulting
Jas Chambers is Chair of Ocean Decade Australia, an organisation connecting Australia's ocean stakeholders to bring about national change for ocean management, stewardship, and use. Jas has worked in Australian higher education and government and international science diplomacy including with United Nations Specialized Agencies and the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, representing Australia. Jas serves on the board of Science & Technology Australia, the Sydney Institute for Marine Science Foundation and the Grok Academy.
Dr Susannah Eliott FTSE, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Science Media Centre
Dr Susannah Eliott has a PhD in cell biology from Macquarie University, a Graduate Diploma in Journalism from the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS) and an honorary doctorate in science communication from the University of Adelaide. Susannah has more than 25 years of practical experience in science communication with the interface between science and the media being her primary focus. She is a Board member of the Environment Institute at the University of Adelaide, a member of the Inspiring South Australia Steering Group, and a regular contributor to ABC Radio National’s Drive program.
Mr Michael Hopkin, Deputy Chief of Staff, The Conversation
Michael Hopkin has been a senior editor at The Conversation for the past decade, in roles including Science and Technology Editor, Environment Editor and Factcheck Editor. He also spent several years as a journalist with the former Fairfax newspapers, The West Australian and other national news outlets. Before moving to Australia from his native UK, he was a senior news and features writer for Nature.
Marcus Strom, Science Media Adviser, University of Sydney
Marcus Strom has been a journalist and communications professional for more than 25 years. He is currently the Science Media Adviser at the University of Sydney. Marcus is a former president of MEAA Media and for 13 years was a senior journalist at the Sydney Morning Herald in roles including Science Editor. For six months to February 2023 he was on secondment as Press Secretary to the Federal Minister for Industry and Science.
Department of Industry, Science and Resources Eureka Prize for STEM Inclusion
Dr Cher Harte, Assistant Manager, Department of Industry, Science and Resources
Dr Cher Harte works to improve STEM inclusion through her role managing the Inspiring Australia Program at the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR). She works towards inspiring young Australians to choose STEM as a career path, increase overall science literacy and increasing engagement with underrepresented communities in STEM. Prior to working at DISR she worked in marine biosecurity, in the National Environmental Science Program, and in offshore electricity policy and regulation. Cher has a PhD in Marine Ecology from the University of Tasmania.
Sally McPhee, Senior Manager - Strategic Partnerships, Griffith University
Sally McPhee is a passionate advocate and successful facilitator of STEM pathways for transforming young lives. Sally has led roles in impactful regional and state-wide STEM education initiatives and partnerships for the last ten years. She believes in fostering a scientifically literate community by inspiring students to study STEM subjects. Sally regularly works with female academics and industry partners, to provide the inspirational stories and put faces to some of the most impactful and cutting-edge research happening at Griffith University and beyond.
Dr Jenny Newell, Curator for Climate Change, Australian Museum's Climate Solutions Centre
Dr Jenny Newell works on the cultural dimensions of climate change, focusing on communities in Australia and the Pacific. She aims to increase engagement in environmental stewardship through the medium of museums. With a background in environmental history, Jenny has worked with Pacific communities and collections at the British Museum, National Museum of Australia, the American Museum of Natural History (New York) and the Australian Museum to amplify voices on climate change for broad audiences. Jenny convenes the Museums & Climate Change Network and is a member of the International Council of Museums’ Working Group for Sustainability.
Dr Graham Walker, Lecturer and Postgraduate Coursework Convenor, Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, Australian National University
Dr Graham Walker is a science communication teacher, researcher and practitioner at the National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science (CPAS) at the Australian National University, where he convenes Postgraduate Coursework. He works at the interface of science communication and informal STEM learning, with interests in capacity building, emotion and motivation, and communication of social and environmental issues, particularly in science centres, hands-on workshops and science shows – of which he is an avid performer. Graham has worked on capacity building initiatives throughout the Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East since 2003.
School Science
University of Sydney Sleek Geeks Science Eureka Prize
Kylie Ahern, Founder and CEO, STEM Matters; and Publisher, The Brilliant
CEO, serial entrepreneur and co-founder, publisher and science journalist, Kylie Ahern has transformed how non-academic Australians read about, understand, and interact with evidence, and significantly lifted the bar for public communication of research. She has also materially increased the communications capabilities and public profile of a great many researchers and opened opportunities for many millions of dollars in research funding across the breadth of Australian research.
Brandon Gifford, Snake Catcher, Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers
Born and bred in Casino, NSW. Brandon Gifford grew up with a deep love, passion and interest in wildlife, its environment and communicating the incredible science behind our natural world. This led him to become a three time University of Sydney Sleek Geeks Science Eureka Prize winner for his films on snakes, lizards and spiders. Brandon is undertaking a Bachelor of Wildlife Science and plans to be a wildlife conservationist: communicating new research on the species we share our planet with.
Alexander Kammer, Leader of Learning (STEM Integration), Marian Catholic College
Alexander Kammer's role includes creating opportunities for students to engage in real world and authentic projects, and integrating STEM into the curriculum. An alumnus from The University of Sydney, he found his passion for educating whilst teaching and conducting research in the School of Chemistry. Alexander seeks to instil the value of education and drive for scientific inquiry; he leads collaborations with industry, educational leaders and schools to develop strong educational programs to build students as lifelong learners.
Professor Peter Rutledge, Professor of Chemistry and Head of School, School of Chemistry, University of Sydney
Professor Peter Rutledge studied at the Universities of Auckland (BSc, MSc) and Oxford (DPhil, Rhodes Scholar) and as a postdoctoral fellow in Oxford. After three years at University College Dublin he moved to Sydney in 2006 where he has been since. Peter’s research spans biosynthesis, antibiotics discovery, molecular sensors, and science communication. He has won the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Teaching twice, the SUPRA Supervisor of the Year Award, and more than $5 M in research grant income.
