Hudson Institute fetal physiologist Dr Emily Camm has been named one of 17 new STEM Ambassadors by Science and Technology Australia.
Dr Camm is the STEM Ambassador to Victorian Senator David Van. The new cohort of STA STEM Ambassadors will meet regularly with their local federal MPs and senators in 2021 to deepen connections between policymakers and the STEM sector.
What is the STEM Ambassador program?
Science and Technology Australia's prestigious STEM Ambassador program – which began in 2019 – pairs science and technology professionals with their local federal MPs and senators.
Throughout the year, STEM Ambassadors meet with their local parliamentarian to bring their science expertise and networks to assist evidence-based policy-making.
The STEM Ambassadors are drawn from Science and Technology Australia's member organisations and come from a diverse range of academic backgrounds and interests.
Why government needs to make evidence-based decisions
Dr Camm said science was an important tool for ensuring government made evidence-based decisions.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that if governments base their policy and decision-making on scientific evidence, the virus can be controlled. It is critical that governments' policies and decision-making are evidence-based, using the problem solving and critical thinking skills that STEM education can provide," Dr Camm said.
Science and Technology Australia Chief Executive Officer Misha Schubert welcomed the new STEM Ambassadors and congratulated them on their selection from a highly competitive field.
"Science has been Australia's salvation in tackling COVID-19. Australia needs to continue to build on that strong relationship between the STEM sector and Parliamentarians to prepare Australia to meet future challenges," she said.
"The STEM Ambassador program empowers experts to become effective advocates for science and the sector, and to use their expertise to inform policy to shape Australia's future."
"We're delighted to welcome the new STEM Ambassadors and look forward to seeing them develop a strong working relationship with their local MPs and Senators to make sure science and technology are at the forefront of policy thinking."
