A Curtin University astronomer for whom a day at the office includes unlocking the inner workings of supermassive black holes and discovering the remains of rare stellar explosions, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Nancy Millis Medal, which recognises women scientists for their outstanding contribution to research and leadership.
Associate Professor Natasha Hurley-Walker from the Curtin University node of the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) was awarded the medal today by the Australian Academy of Science.
Her research uses supercomputers to process vast amounts of data from WA telescopes, in particular the Murchison Widefield Array, to map the southern sky in 'radio colour', revealing a dazzling new view of the cosmos.
Associate Professor Hurley-Walker also led the discovery of a new class of astrophysical objects, the long-period radio transients, powerful energy pulses repeating on unusually slow timescales. In addition, she led the first identification of an optical counterpart, shedding new light on these mysterious cosmic signals.
Through participation in many documentaries, media appearances and outreach activities, Associate Professor Hurley-Walker is recognised publicly and internationally as a leader in her field and continues to inspire the next generation of scientists and space enthusiasts.
Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne congratulated Associate Professor Hurley-Walker on being recognised for her outstanding contributions to science.
"Associate Professor Hurley-Walker is an internationally acclaimed researcher whose groundbreaking work has led to advances in fields as diverse as radio galaxy life cycles, galaxy clusters, cosmic magnetic fields, supernova remnants and high-energy astrophysics," Professor Hayne said.
"Her achievements are a testament to her exceptional dedication and expertise and receiving the Nancy Millis Medal is a fitting recognition of her outstanding career to-date."
Associate Professor Hurley-Walker said she was humbled to receive recognition from the Australian Academy of Science, alongside other respected leaders and researchers.
"My work has uncovered new perspectives in radio astronomy and highlighted the surprising beauty of our unseen universe to the public. I am delighted to receive this award and thank the Academy for recognising the value of this research and its impact on my discipline and beyond," Associate Professor Hurley-Walker said.
"As an emerging female leader in STEM, I am deeply committed to advancing equal opportunities, fostering equitable and sustainable workplaces, and leading diverse teams to success.
"My ultimate aim is to push the boundaries of astrophysics by making groundbreaking discoveries, particularly with the SKAO (Square Kilometre Array Observatory), the world's most powerful radio telescope." Further information on the Nancy Millis Medal can be found online here.
