Three new Superstars of STEM at Sydney

Three University of Sydney experts are among the sixty scientists, technologists, engineers, and mathematicians to be named Australia’s latest Superstars of STEM by the Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic MP.

Superstars of STEM is a highly competitive program run by Science & Technology Australia that increases the visibility of women and non-binary people in STEM by preparing them for media and public speaking opportunities, both to further their own careers and champion STEM fields to future generations.

In February next year, the superstars will gather in Canberra for the program's Science Meets Parliament event, sponsored by the University of Sydney. Over the next two years, the superstars will undergo intensive training and skills development to give them the experience and confidence to step into the public spotlight as go-to media commentators for science and technology stories. They will also partake in school visits to encourage young people into a future in science and technology.

Science & Technology Australia Deputy CEO and Superstars of STEM Program Manager Dr Sandra Gardam said the program was powerfully changing public perceptions of scientists in the media. 

“We know it’s really hard to be what you can’t see,” she said. “This world-leading program is smashing stereotypes of what a scientist, technologist, engineer or mathematician looks like.” 

“By becoming highly visible role models in the media, these Superstars of STEM are showing our diverse next generations of young people – especially our girls and non-binary kids, regardless of where they live and whatever their background – that STEM is for them.”

The program commenced in 2017 and has trained 210 superstars who have gone on to engage with over 85,000 kids in schools around Australia.

Our three new Superstars of STEM:

School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science

Dr Kenya Fernandes explores the world of microbes and bees. Her research focuses on how microorganisms living in and around bees affect their health and the quality of bee-made products like honey and pollen. By studying these intricate relationships, she aims to improve our ability to protect bees and the ecosystems that rely on their pollination.

Her journey into research began with a fascination for the beauty, complexity, and diversity of fungi, which led her to complete a PhD in mycology in 2020. This curiosity has driven Dr Fernandes to explore various fields, from infectious diseases and drug discovery to microbial symbioses and ecosystem health.

Outside the lab, Dr Fernandes is passionate about making science accessible and engaging for everyone. She enjoys sharing her discoveries with the public and raising awareness about our unique native species. Her goal is to inspire curiosity, foster a love of science, and encourage action to protect our rich native biodiversity.

Sydney Quantum Academy

Rebecca Halligan began her career as a veterinarian. She desexed wolves in Canada, cats in Greece and kangaroos in Australia. When these projects failed because of problems with planning and stakeholder management, she moved to a corporate career, aiming to grow her leadership skills. Rebecca worked in the pharmaceutical industry in new product development, partnering with government agencies on regulation and importation.  She led teams in the higher education sector supporting medical and scientific research. 

In 2019, Rebecca was appointed as Chief Operating Officer for the Sydney Quantum Academy, a joint venture with the vision of building Australia’s quantum economy.  In this role, she oversees programs and advocates for initiatives to increase workforce diversity.  Having sampled an usually wide range of STEM careers and sectors, earned three degrees and had a family along the way, Rebecca is keen to support other women to build their confidence and develop fulfilling careers in STEM.

School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science

Dr Rebecca Thistlethwaite is a plant breeder, and says her job is like being a matchmaker for plants. She helps make everyday food crops more tolerant to challenges like heat and drought, while ensuring they remain highly nutritious. By blending old-school science with new technologies, Dr Thistlethwaite works to ensure our food can keep up with the growing population, no matter what nature throws at it.

Dr Thistlethwaite received her PhD from the University of Sydney, specialising in genetic pathways to improve heat and drought tolerance in food crops. She is currently a Research Associate at the Plant Breeding Institute in Narrabri, with nearly 12 years of experience in agricultural science. She was recognised as an ABC Top 5 Science Media Resident in 2023 and received the Agrifutures Acceleration Grant in 2024 for creating AgriCom Connect, which links young scientists with agricultural professionals.