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Giving a voice to a new generation of science and technology thinkers

Twelve young scientists and engineers are vying for a spot in the ‘Top 5 under 40’ program, an initiative of UNSW and ABC Radio National to mark 40 years of The Science Show.

Published on the 24 Feb 2015

To mark 40 years of The Science Show on air in 2015, Top 5 under 40 is an exciting initiative to discover Australia’s new generation of science thinkers – and give them a voice.

The scheme, supported by UNSW and ABC RN, targets outstanding early career researchers under 40 working in universities and research institutions across science, technology, engineering, maths and medical research. A desire and flair for science communication is a key criteria.

The response to the national call-out was overwhelming, with close to 250 applications from young scientists across the country. From this impressive list 12 applicants have been shortlisted to take part in a two-day workshop on 26-27 February at the ABC in Sydney, coordinated by RN.

Working with the network's experienced producers and science presenters, experienced scientists and guest writers, TV reporters and science communicators, the finalists will develop their radio program ideas and pitch to a panel of judges, including Robyn Williams (RN), Professor Fiona Stanley (UWA), Professor Lesley Hughes (Macquarie) and Professor Merlin Crossley (UNSW).

The winners – the ‘Top 5’ – will be announced on The Science Show on 7 March. They will undertake a 10-day media program as 'Scientists in Residence' at RN’s Sydney studios.

Here are the finalists, in alphabetical order:

  • Matthew Baker – Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute        
  • Dani Barrington – Monash University, International Water Centre
  • Amanda Bauer – Australian Astronomical Observatory
  • Amber Beavis  – WA Museum
  • Anjali Jaiprakash – QUT, Science and Engineering Faculty
  • Michael Kasumovic – UNSW, School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences
  • Niraj Lal – Australian National University, Centre for Sustainable Energy Systems
  • Cathal O’Connell – University of Wollongong, Intelligent Polymer Research Laboratories (based at St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne)
  • Vince Polito – Macquarie University, Department of Cognitive Science
  • Paul Pounds – University of Queensland, School of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering
  • Kirrilly Thompson – Central Queensland University, Appleton Institute
  • Alice Williamson – University of Sydney, School of Chemistry

Read more about Top 5 under 40 here.

Media contact: Denise Knight, UNSW Media Office, d.knight@unsw.edu.au 0405 207 685

 

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