QUT excellence in STEM shone brilliantly as the 2024 Queensland Women in STEM Prize winners were announced at a ceremony earlier this week.
The Queensland Women in STEM Prize recognises and rewards the extraordinary women who exemplify innovation, leadership and a relentless pursuit of knowledge and discovery.
Presented by Queensland Museum in collaboration with the Queensland Government through the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation and the Office for Women, the prize looks to champion Queensland women making profound impacts and driving transformative change in STEM fields.
The prestigious prizes were awarded across three categories: the First Nations STEM Award, the Breaking Barriers Award, and the Judges’ Award.
Associate Professor Susanna Cramb, a biostatistician and epidemiologist in the QUT School of Public Health and Social Work, took out the Judges’ Award for her pivotal role in developing innovative solutions using statistical methods to identify, understand and reduce health inequities across Queensland.
A celebrated leader in the field of Bayesian disease mapping, Professor Cramb is a pioneer in the small-area mapping of cancer survival across Queensland. Using innovative statistical methods, her research has enhanced the understanding of disease outcomes and helped to reduce health inequities across the state.
The inaugural First Nations STEM Award was presented to proud Gangalu woman, aerospace engineer and QUT alumnus, Taylah Griffin.
As a senior systems engineer, she contributed to the flight testing of the autonomous MQ-28, the first aircraft to be designed and built in Australia since World War 2. In 2018, Ms Griffin became the first Indigenous person to graduate with an Honours degree in Electrical and Aerospace Engineering, and she was the first Indigenous woman to graduate from any engineering degree at QUT
Dr Tatheer Zahra, a composite materials engineer in the QUT School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, received a highly commended in the Breaking Barriers category.
An emerging structural materials expert, Dr Zahra leads revolutionary research into 3D printed concrete composites and walling systems for advanced and resilient infrastructure. Working with industry leaders, she is helping industry to develop sustainable construction materials with less carbon emissions, improved fire resistance and enhanced resilience against hazards.
Dr Zahra is a passionate advocate of women and girls from diverse backgrounds to engage in STEM education, leading numerous award-wining community outreach and education programs.
PhD student Ashara Moore in the School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering was also named as a finalist.
A leader in civil and environmental engineering, Ms Moore guides the development and execution of engineering solutions to solve complex problems within the resources sector. Following her passion for sustainability, she is currently researching an innovative new method of remediating mine waste for use in land rehabilitation.
Ms Moore has championed numerous STEM outreach projects, including the development of a site-based program that connects students who have limited exposure to STEM mining fields with professional industry mentors.
Queensland Chief Scientist Professor Kerrie Wilson said the finalists and winners were all tackling pressing challenges within their fields and are inspirational role models for future STEM leaders.
“By sharing their stories, achievements and encouragement, these amazing women are helping more young Queensland women step into a STEM career, fostering more diverse thinking and innovative solutions,” she said.
Queensland Museum CEO Dr Jim Thompson said this year’s winners showcase Queensland’s remarkable talent at the forefront of scientific advancement.
“Through these awards, Queensland Museum continues its longstanding commitment to recognising the outstanding achievements of women working in STEM fields and I hope will inspire future generations of girls and women in pursuing a career in the diverse and rewarding world of STEM,” he said.
Head to the Queensland Museum website to see the full list of award finalists, highly commended and winning recipients.
Main image (left to right): Dr Tatheer Zahra, Dr Jillian Ash, Associate Professor Susanna Cramb, Taylah Griffin, Associate Professor Laura Diamond and Keely Perry. Courtesy Queensland Museum.
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