Fetal and neonatal research scientist Dr Erin McGillick from Hudson Institute will today be named one of Australia's official Superstars of STEM.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews will announce those chosen for Science & Technology Australia's game-changing program in 2021-22.
Dr Erin McGillick, who is also an Adjunct Research Fellow in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Monash University, is one of 60 brilliant women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics chosen for the acclaimed national program.
Superstars of STEM was developed to complement and enhance the important work being done to address the systemic barriers and historic biases that contribute to the alarming loss of women and people with diverse backgrounds from STEM careers.
This program aims to raise the profile of 60 of Australia's most dynamic women in STEM, to create a national critical mass of strong, visible, relatable and public women who are role models in STEM.
Science & Technology Australia Chief Executive Officer Misha Schubert said the program gave women in STEM stronger skills and confidence to step into expert commentary roles in the media.
"Women are still seriously under-represented in STEM leadership roles," she said. "The Superstars of STEM program sets out to smash stereotypes of what a scientist, technologist, engineer or mathematician look like - these powerful role models show young women and girls that STEM is for them."
"We can't thank the Australian Government enough for its strong support of this important program, which is already having a profound impact."
"Sustaining this type of program for the long-term is more important than ever amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic on women in the STEM workforce."
Dr McGillick said she was thrilled to have been chosen from a very competitive national field.
"I'm so excited to continue sharing my own research journey and promoting visibility for diversity and inclusion in STEM, so that younger generations can see there are many ways to be a scientist and that STEM is for everyone," Dr McGillick said.
Since doing the program, current Superstar Dr Kudzai Kanhutu has become a regular on ABC's The Drum, regularly sharing her expertise in frontline health challenges, technology and current affairs.
Another current Superstar Dr Kate Cole generated front-page media in May that led to a ban on hundreds on unsafe masks, protecting frontline healthcare workers and the Australian public.
"There is no way I would have spoken to the media before the Superstars of STEM program, and if I hadn't done that, more than 600 questionable masks would still be on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods," she says.
Supported by the Australian Government's Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources, these next 60 Superstars of STEM will participate in the program in 2021 and 2022.
