News

Search for science role model

HAVE you got what it takes to be a STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) role model?

A nationwide search has begun for the next constellation of Superstars of STEM – a game-changing initiative to advance gender equity by turning more diverse science experts into media stars.
Australia’s Chief Defence Scientist and former Georges Hall student Tanya Monro has praised the initiative to have more role models and send a powerful message to the next generation of young women that there is a place for them in STEM.
“The Superstars of STEM program raises the profile of a diverse range of up and coming female scientists across Australia, and this is powerful, as it shows girls the kinds of things they can do if they study STEM subjects,” she said.
“It also gives the superstars a platform from which they can talk about the problems their science is addressing, and helps many of them make the move from speaking within their specialist communities to engaging more broadly with the community.”
Science Minister Ed Husic said the national talent program is run by Science & Technology Australia and funded by the Federal Government.
“We need to draw on the full diversity of our talent to deliver the next huge science and technology breakthroughs and galvanise STEM gender equity,” he said.
Open to women and non-binary STEM professionals, the program has created 150 Superstars of STEM since 2017.
Applications close on August 14.
Email superstars@sta.org.au for further info or visit scienceandtechnologyaustralia.org.au.