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 from May - July (dates vary each year)
- In the first round, judges independently review each entry against the assessment criteria and award a score.
- 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 2023 AM Eureka Prizes.
Research and Innovation
NSW Environment and Heritage Eureka Prize for Applied Environmental Research
Sandy Carruthers, Executive Director Strategy, Science and Corporate Services, Department for Environment and Water
Sandy Carruthers has had strategic oversight of the SA Department of Environment and Science Program for the past 10 years. She is a Board member of a number of research organisations including Arid Recovery, The Environment Institute and Koala Life and was previously on the Goyder Institute for Water Research and is Deputy Chair of ANZLIC.
Dr Mark Jacobs, Deputy Director-General, Science Division, Queensland Department of Environment and Science
Dr Mark Jacobs has over 20 years' experience in government leading and managing high performing teams, developing and implementing science and innovation policies, strategies, and programs. Before joining government, Mark worked as a research scientist, both locally and internationally, and has maintained strong active industry, university and international networks. He has a PhD in science from The University of Queensland and a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management.
Dr Georgina Kelly, Executive Director, Science, Economics and Insights, NSW Department of Planning and Environment
Over three decades, Dr Georgina Kelly has led environmental policy, regulation and management programs across government, with a strong focus on natural resources, climate, agriculture, forestry, environment protection and conservation. As a long-standing senior executive, she is currently an Executive Director at NSW’s Environment and Heritage Group. Georgina leads the Science, Economics and Insights Division to address major challenges facing NSW: the impact of climate change and natural hazards; declining biodiversity and natural capital; and the increasing complexity of environmental issues.
Denise Ora, Chief Executive, Botanic Gardens of Sydney and Australian Institute of Botanical Science
Denise Ora has the responsibility of leading the incredible Botanic Gardens of Sydney into the future by advocating for the science, conservation, horticulture, education, recreation, and visitor programs that enrich the lives of our local communities and global audiences, providing solutions to critical environmental challenges facing all of life on Earth. As cultural and scientific institutions, the Botanic Gardens of Sydney includes - the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, the Domain, the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan, the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah. And the nation's premier botanical research organisation, the Australian Institute of Botanical Science.
Australian Institute of Botanical Science Eureka Prize for Excellence in Botanical Science
Professor Tony Auld Honorary Scientific Fellow, Department of Planning and Environment NSW
Professor Tony Auld is an Honorary Fellow with the Science, Economics and Insights Division at the Department of Planning and Environment NSW, and a Professorial Fellow at both the University of Wollongong and UNSW. He has worked in conservation for more than 30 years, over which time he has been involved in developing on-ground management for how to best mitigate threats to biodiversity and policy for biodiversity conservation. Throughout his career, Tony's focus has been to examine how to 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, Executive Director, Biodiversity and Conservation Science, 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.
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 an elected council member of the Australian Flora Foundation.
Professor Brett Summerell, Chief Scientist and Director Science, Education and Conservation, Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust
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
Dr Sharon Downes, Senior Principal Research Scientist and Group Leader, CSIRO Agricultural and Food
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.
Emeritus Professor Neville Nicholls FAA, 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 Deputy 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.
Caitlin Skinner, Director Business Development, Business Events Perth
As Director Business Development, Caitlin leads Business Events Perth's business development team, overseeing the organisation's sales activities in the local, domestic and international markets. Caitlin previously worked for Business Events Perth (formerly known as Perth Convention Bureau) for eight years in the roles of Director Community Relations and Senior Business Development Manager.
Australian Research Data Commons Eureka Prize for Excellence in Research Software
Professor Elanor Huntington FTSE, 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.
Dr Ian Oppermann, NSW Government’s Chief Data Scientist and Associate Industry Professor, University of Technology Sydney
Dr Ian Opperman is a Digital Economy thought leader, a highly-cited researcher, and a regular speaker about big data, broadband enabled services and the impact of technology on society. He chairs the NSW Artificial Intelligence Advisory Committee and the NSW Smart Places Advisory Council. Ian has nearly 30 years’ experience in the Information and Communication Technology sector and has led large organizations that deliver products and services that have reached millions of people worldwide.
Professor Hugh Possingham FAA FNAS, Vice-Chancellor's Senior Research Fellow, University of Queensland; Chief Scientist, Accounting for Nature; and Co-chair, Biodiversity Council
Professor Hugh Possingham is a mathematician and ecologist who loves birds. Co-authored over 720 peer-reviewed papers, received over 80 million in competitive research grants and successfully supervised 160 PhDs and postdocs. Winner of two Eureka Prizes. He has recently been Queensland Chief Scientist and Chief Scientist of The Nature Conservancy (globally).
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.
Leonie Walsh GAICD FTSE, Board Chair, Centre for New Energy Technologies; and Independent Director, RayGen
A career built off a broad international science and technology base, overlaid with strong business and governance credentials. Current board and advisory board experience across industry, government and academia on strategic technology and business development, collaboration, technology commercialisation, corporate governance and the future skilled workforce with a sector focus including renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, defence, clean technologies and health services.
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 Peter Revill AM, Head, Regional and Global Health, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity
Professor Peter Revill is Head of Regional and Global Health at VIDRL at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, where he is also head of International Partnerships. Professor Revill has a strong national and international reputation in hepatitis B virus (HBV) virology and in 2016 he co-founded the global HBV cure initiative, the International Coalition to Eliminate Hepatitis B (ICE-HBV). In 2021 he was appointed theme leader in Virology by the Australian Society for Microbiology and in 2022 he was recognized in the Queen's Birthday Order of Australia honours list for services to Microbiology and Immunology.
Professor Mark Schembri, Director, 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.
University of Sydney Eureka Prize for Innovative Research in Sustainability
Professor Hilary Bambrick, Director, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University
Professor Hilary Bambrick has researched the health implications of climate change for more than two decades, including health risk assessment, adaptation, and resilience. She has worked with the World Health Organisation and the United Nations Development Program on national adaptation and health systems resilience strategies and consults for governments in Australia and overseas, she is also Councillor with the Climate Council.
Kylie Charlton, Managing Director, Australian Impact Investments; and Venture Partner and Advisor, Giant Leap
Kylie Charlton has worked in Australia and internationally at the intersection of mainstream capital markets, impact investment and philanthropy for nearly two decades. Focused on mobilising capital for a better tomorrow her work has spanned multiple social and environmental issues including disability and social housing, education, financial inclusion, healthcare, climate change and natural capital. Kylie is Chair of the Australian Government supported Emerging Markets Impact Investment Fund, member of BetaShares Responsible Investment Committee, and awardee of the AFR 100 Women of Influence 2018.
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.
Professor Thomas Maschmeyer FAA FTSE MAE FRACI FRSN, 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.
ANSTO Eureka Prize for Innovative Use of Technology
Dr Nick Cerneaz GAICD, Head of Engineering, Australian Astronomical Optics, Macquarie University; and Non-Executive Director, MTP Connect
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, Seventh Wave 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 Suzanne Hollins, Head of Research, ANSTO
Dr Suzanne Hollins joined ANSTO in 2001, and was appointed Head of Research, Nuclear Science & Technology and Landmark Infrastructure in February 2016 after almost twelve years as Leader of the Isotopes for Water research program. She is responsible for the strategic leadership, management and delivery of world class applied and translational research programs that utilise nuclear techniques to contribute to supporting a sustainable and healthier future.
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
Dr Marguerite Evans-Galea AM, Director, STEM Careers Strategy, Australian Academy of Technology & Engineering; and Co-founder, Women in STEMM Australia
Dr Marguerite Evans-Galea is a scientist, executive and board director working at the interface of industry, academia and government. Dr Evans-Galea has led international research programs in cell and gene therapy at world-leading organisations in the United States and Australia, and has received numerous awards for her research and leadership. She leads a suite of national STEM education and careers initiatives with the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences & Engineering and is an advocate for STEM research, innovation, inclusion and allyship. Dr Evans-Galea co-founded Women in STEMM Australia and is a Member of the Order of Australia.
Dr Ruwangi Fernando, Director, STEM Sisters; and Director, iSTEM Co
Dr Ruwangi Fernando is an IT specialist with a PhD in Artificial Intelligence from Victoria University. She is a trailblazer and a changemaker for women of colour in STEM and advocates for an intersectional approach to diversity and inclusion in the Australian STEM sector. She founded STEM Sisters, an organization empowering women of colour in STEM, and co-founded iSTEM Co., a company focused on enabling the employment for women including women of colour and women from CALD backgrounds in Australia's STEM organisations. Dr Fernando is a leader, researcher, consultant, entrepreneur, AI specialist, and speaker devoted to advocating for diversity and inclusion in STEM.
Associate Professor Melissa Hart, Graduate Director, 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.
Professor Grant Hose, Associate Dean Innovation, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University
Professor Grant Hose is an aquatic ecologist and ecotoxicologist. His research examines the response of groundwater ecosystems, invertebrate and microbial communities to environmental change, and develops tools for assessing change in ecosystem health and condition. Grant and his team undertake field surveys and laboratory manipulative experiments, to identify correlative and causal links to community change.
Professor Damon Honnery, Monash University
Professor Damon Honnery works in the department of Mechanical Engineering at Monash University where he has over the preceding 30 years taught and researched in the areas of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. He specialises in energy research related to climate change mitigation. He has also held senior administrative positions, most recently being Deputy Dean Operations in the Faculty of Engineering.
Department of Defence Eureka Prize for Outstanding Science in Safeguarding Australia
Professor Lorenzo Faraone AM 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.
Jim McDowell, CEO, Nova Systems
Jim has 30 year's experience in both the private and public sectors. Before joining Nova Systems, Jim was South Australia's top public servant in the role of Chief Executive for the Department of the Premier and Cabinet. He is a former CEO of BAE Systems Australia and BAE Systems Saudi Arabia, and former Chancellor of the University of South Australia.
Professor Kate Stevens FRSN, Institute Director, 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.
Ms Kathryn Toohey AM CSC, Non-Executive 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 Georgia Chenevix-Trench FAA, Distinguished Scientist, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute
Professor Georgia Chenevix-Trench is a cancer geneticist who has been at QIMR-Berghofer since 1986. She established her own lab in 1992 when she received an NHMRC R. Douglas Wright award and has been continually funded by the NHMRC Fellowship scheme. Her particular interest is in breast cancer genetics, but she has worked on other hereditary cancers previously.
Professor Les Field AM FAA FRACI FRSN, 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
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 the world’s premier authority on the ecology and conservation biology of dugongs, receiving international and national recognition for her extensive research on their life history, reproductive ecology, population dynamics, diet, distribution, abundance and movements. She is currently the Lead for the Threatened and Migratory Species and Threatened Ecological Communities Initiative for the National Environmental Science Program based in the Resilient Landscapes Hub. She also chairs the national Threatened Species Scientific Committee and is a Vice-President and Secretary Biological Sciences of the Australian Academy of Science until June 2023.
Leadership
Eureka Prize for Emerging Leader in Science
Professor Kristofer Helgen, Chief Scientist and Director of the Australian Museum Research Institute (AMRI), Australian Museum
As AMRI Director, Professor Kristofer Helgen is responsible for more than 100 staff, including research scientists, collection scientists, collection officers and more than 130 associates, fellows and students, who research and explore the natural world. Before joining AMRI Kris was Professor of Biological Sciences at the University of Adelaide. His research has primarily focused on fieldwork with living animals and research in museum collections to document the richness of life, understand global change, and contribute to important problems in biomedicine.
Professor Maria Kavallaris AM FAHMS FRSN, Head of Translational Cancer Nanomedicine, Children's Cancer Institute; and Director Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, UNSW Sydney
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 and Research Leader, RMIT University
Professor Sharath Sriram is a science and research leader creating and delivering breakthrough technologies in nanoelectronics, sensors, and medical technologies. Focused on translating technology for healthcare, to bring science fiction to reality. Led and coordinated a $60 million multi-user, inter-disciplinary research facility. Active contributor to science policy with a focus on innovation and long-term strategy, early- and mid-career researchers, and diversity and inclusion.
Kylie Walker, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering (ATSE)
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.
Eureka Prize for Leadership in Science and Innovation
Emeritus Professor Mark Dodgson AO FASSA, Executive-in-Residence, University of Oxford; Visiting Professor, Imperial College London; and Emeritus Professor, University of Queensland.
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.
Professor Douglas Hilton AO FAA FTSE FAHMS, Director, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research; and Head, Brain Cancer Centre
Professor Douglas Hilton is the sixth director of Melbourne medical research institute WEHI, the inaugural head of the Brain Cancer Centre and the Lorenzo and Pamela Galli Chair in Medical Biology. Doug champions fundamental science and how its translation has transformative impact on our lives. As a medical researcher, he and his team focus on how blood cells are produced, how they function, and how they “talk” to each other. He is a passionate advocate for health and medical research, diversity and inclusion, and gender equality in science.
Professor Margaret Sheil AO FAA FTSE, Vice-Chancellor and President, Queensland University of Technology
Professor Margaret Sheil is a distinguished chemist and leader in the scientific and university sector. A strong advocate for science and scientists, a particular emphasis throughout her career has been on support for early career scientists, women researchers and outstanding scientific mentors. She has played a pivotal role in the development of national science and research policy, and has consistently sought to ensure that Australian scientists have access to world class scientific infrastructure and funding schemes.
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 Young Researchers
Shirley Chowdhary, Non-Executive Director, Australian Associated Press; and Non-Executive Director, Australian Institute of Architects
Shirley Chowdhary builds collaborative ecosystems by connecting shareholder value creation with purpose. She believes fiercely in Reconciliation, and in diversity and inclusion as tools for innovation. She is a non-executive director on the boards of the Australian Associated Press, Royal Australian Institute of Architects and Northrop. She is Chair of the Advisory Board of Octadoc and a member of the Advisory Board of Mentor Walks. She is a keynote speaker and involved in a variety of mentoring and volunteering.
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
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 Paul Wood AO FTSE, 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.
Science Engagement
Department of Industry, Science and Resources Eureka Prize for Innovation in Citizen Science
Dr Bobby Cerini, Deputy Director, 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.
Jessica McDonald, Manager, Science Policy, Department of Industry, Science and Resources
Jessica McDonald holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Management. Jessica has worked for the Australia Public Service since 2006 across such areas as cyber security policy, energy policy and science policy. Jessica currently delivers the Government’s science engagement and diversity in STEM activities and supports the provision of strategic science policy in government.
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 Jonathan Webb, Science Editor, ABC
Dr Jonathan Webb is a science journalist and broadcaster. He has a PhD in neuroscience from Oxford University. After leaving the lab he became a science reporter for BBC News. In 2016, he returned to Australia to run the ABC’s science unit, where he manages a team of specialist journalists and producers working across radio, podcasts and the web. Jonathan appears regularly on ABC radio and TV, including on RN Breakfast.
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 Emerita Lesley Hughes, Macquarie University
Professor Lesley Hughes is a climate change ecologist whose main research interest has been the impacts of climate change on species and ecosystems, and the implications of climate change for conservation. She is a former Lead Author in the IPCC’s 4th and 5th Assessment Report, a Councillor and Director of the Climate Council of Australia; member of Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists; and member of the Climate Change Authority. She won the 2014 Australian Government Eureka Prize for Promoting Understanding of Australian Science Research.
Associate Professor Alice Motion, Interim Director, Sydney Nano Institute, University of Sydney
Associate Professor Alice Motion is a chemist 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 have the overarching goal of connecting people with science, making research more accessible. Alice is the Interim Director of the Sydney Nano Institute and was awarded the 2020 Celestino Eureka Prize for Promoting Understanding of Science.
Dr Robyn Williams AO, Presenter, The Science Show, ABC’s Radio National
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, 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.
Bruce Ritchie, Senior Manager, Communications & Events, Office of the NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer
Bruce Ritchie is a former journalist and editor who spent over two decades working in magazine publishing. Since 2017 he’s worked in the Office of the NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer (OCSE). OCSE sits within the NSW Department of Enterprise, Investment and Trade and is tasked with delivering independent, high level scientific advice to the Premier and Ministers on policy issues, providing R&D support and guiding industry development. Bruce manages communications for both internal and external stakeholders, and oversees OCSE’s STEM outreach programs and events, including the annual Premier's Prizes for Science & Engineering and the bimonthly Science & Research Breakfast Seminar Series.
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 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
Manuwuri Traceylee Forester, Indigenous Partnerships Coordinator, Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS)
Manuwuri Traceylee Forester has dedicated her life to assisting Traditional Owner Groups reach their aspirations of self-management, self-determination and strong governance. She was appointed as the first Indigenous Board Secretariat for Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, serving a 5-year term. She then returned to Cape York, Queensland and worked tirelessly for her people (the Lama Lama People) as the Traditional Use of Marine Resources Agreement (TUMRA) Coordinator – helping manage Sea Country. In her current role, she helps Traditional Owners connect with AIMS to build partnerships, access better science and research, leading to opportunities to value Traditional Knowledge and Western Science.
Mitra Gusheh, Executive Manager, Social Impact, University of Technology Sydney
Mitra Gusheh is a social impact practitioner with 20 years of experience across the higher education and social sectors. She currently leads the Social Impact team, who facilitate the connection between community and the university and work to build capacity and enable enhanced contribution to society. Previously, Mitra was an Academic with the School of Design, Architecture and Building at UTS. She has also worked for a range of not-for profit organisations where she was responsible for the strategic design, development and implementation of large-scale social change programs.
Isabelle King, Acting Assistant Manager, Science Policy, Department of Industry, Science and Resources
Isabelle (Izzy) King works to improve equity in STEM through her current role in Science Policy at the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR). Her work has supported number of initiatives, including the STEM Equity Monitor, the Women in STEM Ambassador, the Girls in STEM Toolkit and the new Elevate: Boosting Women in STEM scholarship program. Prior to joining DISR she worked as a high school science teacher with students and families from all walks of life.
Associate Professor Erica Southgate, Associate Professor of Emerging Technologies for Education, University of Newcastle Associate
Professor Erica Southgate is an equity champion, maker of computer games for literacy learning, a technology ethicist, and lead researcher on the ‘VR School Study’, the longest-running research on embedding immersive virtual reality into classrooms. Her latest book is ‘Virtual Reality in Curriculum and Pedagogy: Evidence from Secondary Classrooms’ (Routledge).
School Science
University of Sydney Sleek Geeks Science Eureka Prize
Brandon Gifford, Reptile Keeper, Australia Zoo
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. Working as a zookeeper Brandon gets to work with an array of native and exotic wildlife. He is undertaking a Bachelor of Wildlife Science and his goal is to be a wildlife conservationist: communicating new research on the species we share our planet with.
Alexander Kammer, STEM Integrator, Faculty of Science, 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.
Dr Penny Palmer, Executive Producer, ABC Television
Dr Penny Palmer has a PhD in Marine Science, spent 15 years at the BBC producing and directing science, business and history content and now runs Catalyst, the ABC's award-winning science documentary series and executive produces their science short form strands.
Professor Jennifer Potts, Head of School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney
Professor Jennifer Potts is a structural biologist; her lab studies proteins found on the surface of bacteria to understand their role in infection. She is a University of Sydney graduate (BSc and PhD) who spent much her academic career in the UK at both the University of Oxford and the University of York. She is now Head of the School of Life and Environmental Sciences at the University of Sydney.
