Meet the 20 Superstars of STEM from NSW 

Superstars of STEM aims to smash society’s gender assumptions about scientists and increase the public visibility of women and non-binary people in STEM. The people in the program are all committed to building a public profile and becoming role models for the next generation of STEM stars.

Meet the 20 Superstars of STEM from NSW: 

Jennifer Baker: Medicinal Chemist at University of Wollongong    

I design and make new drugs to treat human cancers.

Katie Buchhorn: Mathematician at ARC Centre of Excellence for the Elimination of Violence Against Women          

I use maths and technology to solve real-world problems like violence against women.

Katie (Bashant) Day: Startup Founder at Media City Scientific        

My startup makes products that helps labs be more reliable and sustainable.

Dr Rebecca Duncan: Polar marine biologist at University Technology Sydney/Australian Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering (AINSE) 

I explore how climate change impacts the ocean’s food source, microscopic algae, in the Arctic and Antarctic.

Dr Paige Erpf: Synthetic Biologist at Macquarie University/ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology      

I genetically engineer microbes, such as yeast and bacteria, to produce biofuels, plastics, and medicines.

Kate Fairlie: Surveyor and land specialist at Land Equity International 

I use my surveying skills to help governments create affordable housing and adapt to climate change.

Kenya  Fernandes: Microbiologist at The University of Sydney             

I protect bees and improve honey by studying the microbes that live on and around bees.

CamilleGoldstone-Henry: Nature tech entrepreneur at Xylo Systems

I use AI to help businesses measure and minimise their impact on biodiversity.

Dr Renee Goreham: Nanotechnologist at the University Of Newcastle      

I research new nanomaterials to help detect diseases such as lung cancer.

Rebecca Halligan: Quantum computing championat Sydney Quantum Academy/University of Sydney

I am building Australia’s quantum economy and increasing diversity in the quantum workforce.

Nikki Keighran: Radiation Protection Advisor at Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation              

I am the go-to expert for keeping people and environments safe from radiation.

Dr Wendy Lee: Electrical Engineer at University of New South Wales             

I engineer technologies using invisible waves to uncover hidden dangers like concealed weapons and to detect cancer

Nicola Lo: Land Development Manager at Colliers Engineering & Design             

I lead a team of engineers, planners and surveyors to prepare land for building homes, vibrant neighbourhoods, and thriving communities.

Melissa Marquez: Marine wildlife educator – Freelance       

I study sharks and help people understand the importance of ocean conservation.

Dr Jody Moller (Morgan): Vaping expert at the University of Wollongong    

I identify chemicals in vapes which can cause harm.

Diana Omuoyo: Observability solution architect at Splunk Inc – A Cisco Company          

I work with teams of software engineers to find technical solutions for large businesses.

Dr Kate Patterson: Veterinarian and visual science communicator at MediPics and Prose  

I improve the health of people, animals and the environment by using digital visualisations to simplify complex information and inform decisions.

Jodie Pestana: Behavioural neuroscientist at the University of New South Wales      

I research how changes in hormones influence women’s mental health and how they respond to treatments.

Vanessa Sewell: Biomedical scientist and Indigenous knowledges researcher         Oorala Aboriginal Centre, University of New England          

I develop vaccines to tackle livestock parasites and promote cultural understanding by supporting Indigenous students.

Dr Rebecca Thistlethwaite: Plant Breeder at the University of Sydney             

I use genetic techniques to make our food crops more resistant to heat and drought.

Find out more about the Superstars of STEM from across NSW

Superstars of STEM is an initiative of Science & Technology Australia funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources. The next Superstars of STEM will join the program in early 2025. 

Feature Image: Science & Technology Australia