Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic has today announced not one, but two Deakin early career researchers as members of the latest ‘Superstars of STEM‘, a prestigious national program promoting the achievements of women and non-binary people in science and technology.
Dr Fariha Jaigirdar, a researcher, lecturer, and AI enthusiast from the School of Information Technology, and Thunderstorm Asthma researcher and PhD student Kira Hughes have both been welcomed into Science and Technology Australia’s 2024-2025 program.
Science & Technology Australia is the nation’s peak body representing more than 100,000 scientists and technologists.
As a lecturer, Jaigirdar is capitalising on the growing interest in AI and the increasing need for cyber security expertise and aims to address the ‘critical need’ to develop innovative solutions that safeguard not only technological systems but also the people who rely on them.
“I love to investigate and apply cybersecurity knowledge in various domains including Internet of Things (IoT), digital health, recordkeeping and Artificial Intelligence,” Jaigirdar says.
“I want people to understand the power of acceptability, diversity and inclusion. I want people to know STEM, to love STEM and to dream for STEM despite being who they are and what they believe.
“Superstars of STEM would bring that platform for me to reach those above goals.”
Storming ahead with STEM innovation
School of Life and Environmental Sciences PhD student Kira Hughes is quickly becoming known as the go-to spokesperson when it comes to understanding ‘thunderstorm asthma’. Chosen as a Superstar of STEM for her innovative approach to the topic, Hughes says the program will allow her to learn from other STEM professionals, as well as inspire the next generation.
“I am immensely honoured to have been selected for the next Superstars cohort,” Hughes says.
“Thunderstorm asthma impacts my city of Melbourne frequently, but little is still known about this phenomenon – which is what I hope to uncover through my work.”
Bridging the gap between scientists and non-scientists
Being able to effectively communicate complex topics to a wider audience through multiple venues like social media, public talks, or even comedy can be incredibly beneficial in bridging the gap between scientists and non-scientists. Through the program, participants are equipped with advanced communication skills and then provided with opportunities to use these skills – in the media, on the stage and in speaking with decision-makers.
“The Superstars of STEM program is very prestigious,” Deakin University Science, Engineering and Built Environment Executive Dean Professor Nick Birbilis says.
“To have not one, but two Deakin researchers as part of the 60-strong cohort, is a wonderful achievement. Both Dr Jaigirdar and Kira are the types of early career researchers Deakin loves to embrace. They are innovative and creative in communicating their research and make complex topics easy for the lay person to understand.
“Dr Jaigirdar is passionate about improving cybersecurity and security awareness in our digital world.
“As an early career researcher, Kira has already made an impact. She is tireless in her science communication and making sure that science is accessible across all platforms.”
Celebrating the nation’s brightest minds
In announcing the latest Superstars of STEM cohort, Minister Husic said, “Australia’s brightest minds are a national asset coveted world-wide, with this year’s cohort of women and non-binary Superstars further underscoring Australia’s capability in STEM”.
“These Superstars show young Australians that STEM careers can take them anywhere: from studying cold-water species beneath Antarctic waters to gazing into outer space and everything in between.”
