Leading female scientists from business, academia, research and government will tomorrow address a UNSW Science symposium on gender equity and celebrate women's achievements.
Deborah Smith
UNSW Media
9385 7307 or 0478 492 060
deborah.smith@unsw.edu.au
Leading female scientists from business, academia, research and government will address a symposium on gender equity in science at UNSW tomorrow.
The Celebrating Women in Science Leadership event will also highlight initiatives such as the Male Champions of Change group and the Australian Academy of Science’s SAGE (Science in Australia Gender Equity) program.
Speakers at the UNSW Science event include NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer Professor Mary O'Kane, CEO of Circadian Technologies Dr Megan Baldwin, CEO of Cellmid Pty Ltd Maria Halasz, CEO of Arup Peter Bailey, and UNSW Dean of Science Professor Merlin Crossley.
UNSW has some of the country’s leading female scientists including Professors Michelle Simmons (quantum physics), Veena Sahajwalla (material sciences and engineering), Emma Johnston (marine ecology), Angela Moles (plant ecology) and Martina Stenzel (chemistry).
Professor Johnston says: "It is incredibly important to have female role models and recognition of women’s achievements. Part of being able to become a successful scientist is to have the confidence to try.”
The achievements of the UNSW researchers as well as those of other female scientists including the new head of the Australian Museum Research Institute, Dr Rebecca Johnson, will be celebrated at the event.
Executive Director and CEO of the Australian Museum Kim McKay AO will chair the proceedings, which will be opened by UNSW President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Jacobs.
ABC TV presenter Emma Alberici will interview female leaders about the myths and challenges facing them as top managers and role models.
Other speakers include Chair of Pottinger Cassandra Kelly and Acting Director of Workplace Gender Equality Agency Louise McSorley.
Media are invited to attend. Please RSVP to Deborah Smith.
What: Celebrating Women in Science Leadership symposium
When: Friday 14 August 2015, 9.30 am -3.30 pm
Where: Scientia Building, UNSW, Kensington campus
More information: www.science.unsw.edu.au/wis