[ASA] FW: STA Member Update | 21 March 2025
Stas Shabala
stanislav.shabala at utas.edu.au
Fri Mar 21 10:23:33 AEDT 2025
Dear ASA members,
See below for a regular update from the STA.
Kind regards,
Stas
------------------------------------
Professor Stas Shabala
(he/him/his)
Associate Head Research, School of Natural Sciences
President, Astronomical Society of Australia
Discipline of Physics | School of Natural Sciences | College of Science and Engineering
University of Tasmania
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From: Ryan Winn <ceo at sta.org.au>
Reply to: Ryan Winn <ceo at sta.org.au>
Date: Friday, 21 March 2025 at 10:19 am
To: Stas Shabala <stanislav.shabala at utas.edu.au>
Subject: STA Member Update | 21 March 2025
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Friday 21 March 2025
The STA Member Update is sent to the leadership of member organisations.
Please forward to your executive and membership.
Dear Stanislav,
The next Federal Election is fast approaching. We have started inviting parties, incumbent independents and candidates to respond to STA's Election Priorities<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/qEQqClx1NjizvjK7vhqs5UzfCLy?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>, and will reach out to other independents once the Election is called. We’re seeking commitments to a whole-of-government STEM strategy, long-term investment in R&D and future industries, and bold national science priorities—including their commitment to implement findings from the Strategic Examination of R&D Funding once completed. Advancing Australian science and research must be a bipartisan effort. We’ll publish their responses on our website, so you can stay informed and make your vote count!
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been humbled to hear incredible stories of Australia’s scientific achievements making a global impact. From the first image from the SKA-Low telescope to WEHI researchers making a breakthrough in the fight against Parkinson’s disease by determining the structure of the human PINK1 enzyme, needle-free insulin delivery supported by Microscopy Australia and Curtin University researchers’ advancements in water-repellent glass to improve vehicle safety and reduce building cleaning costs. Australia is a global powerhouse of science and innovation, with deep partnerships worldwide. Let’s celebrate and showcase this—whether by nominating a colleague for an award, like the 2025 Eureka Prizes<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/BdWxCmO5gluRr9Y2riQt1UR6uAz?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> or ATSE Awards<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/UlLGCnx1jni6YkL5YIEurUJJcUX?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>, or by highlighting our strengths to our and foreign governments and investors to reinforce why Australian research and researchers deserve strong support.
It was fantastic to see the Albanese Government allocate $750 million to support innovation in Australia’s metals manufacturing sector<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/p9Z9CoV1kpfK0QG40sWCxUpxCeI?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>, as part of the $1.7 billion Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund. This investment is a big win for the STEM sector, supporting low-emissions technologies, pilot projects, and advancements in green metals production. By driving innovation in metals manufacturing, the initiative strengthens research, engineering, and technology in materials science, clean energy, and industrial processes. Australian scientists, engineers, and technologists must play a central role in developing and implementing low-emissions solutions like green steel and aluminium production—aligning closely with STA’s vision of an Australia built on Australian ideas.
There’s a lot of consultation happening right now, but if you missed it, the Australian Government is seeking input on future research infrastructure investments for “step changes”—focusing on translation, workforce, and environment and climate. If you're a researcher, research organisation, or infrastructure provider, now is the time to shape the priorities. Submissions close on 28 March 2025—have your say today<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/TFy3Cp81lrtxB7LDBUkFpUGUUYQ?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>! Your input will help guide the next Roadmap and investment plans that shape the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) program.
Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting Perth for a short break with family but also made time to connect with some of our local Western Australian member organisations. I visited the Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre, Curtin University, and the Western Australian Biodiversity Science Institute (WABSI). I was joined by some of STA’s Superstars of STEM – Dr Kari Pitts, Dr Laura Kuhar, and Dr Parwinder Kaur – for the Pawsey visit<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/ReFeCq71mwf7oVrWosMHEUEKxDs?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>. A big thank you to the teams at Pawsey, Curtin, and WABSI for their warm hospitality and the valuable insights shared during these visits.
Reminder: The Professional Scientists’ Remuneration Survey<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/bGdVCr81nytDGWj9GFxI7U49BlR?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> is open! Please take a few minutes to fill it out and share the link with others working in STEM. Your input is vital for advocating better pay, conditions, and outcomes for Australia’s STEM professionals and the sector. Your response matters<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/yhWPCvl1rKiy3RgX3sWSvUQYRVF?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>– survey open only for a couple more weeks!
Last, but not least, STA’s exclusive member webinars are back for 2025! Kicking off the series, STA board directors Dr Jiao Jiao Li and Mark Stickells AM will lead a must-watch session on the power of a nomination<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/kz4fCwV1vMfRW2QpWi4TlUJCA7n?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>. Join us online on Wednesday 26 March, to hear from these two STEM sector leaders about why being nominated—and nominating others—for awards and fellowships can be a game-changer. Register now to secure your spot!
All the best,
Ryan Winn
CEO, Science & Technology Australia
[iSTEM Co Women in STEM Careers Fair]<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/sctaCxngwOfQ3z0O3h4UlUy4rjr?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>
iSTEM Co. Women in STEM Careers Fair 2025<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/kvrVCyojxQTyRpWnRsKcnUx2uIy?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> – A full-day, interactive program for job seekers and STEM women looking to pivot their careers.
REPORTS AND POLICY
* Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler announced<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/1k4hCzvkyVCmA7BLAINfBU9wtpD?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> the retirement of Professor Ian Frazer as Chair of the Australian Medical Research Advisory Board, the appointment of Professor Caroline Homer as Acting Chair, and a call for nominations for a new Chair<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/AFLhCANpgjC1z8oYzcqh6UGJien?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR SUBMISSIONS
* The Department of Education is calling for submissions on specific areas of research infrastructure<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/3F-HCBNqjlClOymoOCOiRU2Ik6X?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>, including Translational research infrastructure, Environment and climate research infrastructure, and Research infrastructure workforce. Submissions close 28 March.
For policy related matters contact STA Director of Policy and Engagement Sarah Tynan<mailto:sarah.tynan at sta.org.au>.
Browse the complete list of reports, policy news, and opportunities for submissions in our LinkedIn newsletter.
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GRANTS, FUNDING, AND OPPORTUNITIES
* ABC’s Top 5 Residencies for PhD researchers<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/SrNBCD1vlpTOkymPkhqsgUj966R?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> is open for applications. Apply before 4 May.
* The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is calling for nominations for authors for the Seventh Assessment Report<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/PjNQCE8wmrt6NYGPNI2t6U7NRtr?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>. Nominations are due 17 April.
* Applications are open for grants under the Australian Forest and Wood Innovations National Open Call<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/eOHqCGv0oyCLQ6lgQsyu2UBuaDg?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> for work exploring climate change solutions, sustainable forests and making the most out of wood fibre. EOIs close 14 April.
* The 2025 STEM Sisters Ambassador Program<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/hd7vCJyBrGfQDVzXDhBC2UyYE4u?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> is open for applications now. For the chance to participate in this unique program, apply before 22 April.
* Nominations are open for the position of Chair of the Australian Medical Research Advisory Board<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/EJX5CK1DvKTrG6wJGUmFAU5lW1P?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>.
* Applications are open for the 2025 Communication Prize<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/JWh7CL7EwMfYZ7OvZsMHlUyrc4k?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> of the International Council of Academies of Engineering and Technological Sciences, closing 31 March.
* STEM Sisters’ Soapbox Science will take place in Sydney 9 August and Melbourne 15 August. EOIs to be a speaker or volunteer<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/IrSpCMwGxOt6A78lAI0IGU8Z6vH?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> have now opened and will close 3 May.
* Nominations for the Australian Academy of Science Honorific Awards<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/t_lVCNLJyQUMGzxRGIJSvUyAM3E?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> close 1 May.
* The Alligator Rivers Region Technical Committee (ARRTC) is seeking applications for five independent scientific member positions<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/w6T7COMKzVT2yMXGyuZTgUGq11i?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> for a 3-year term starting August 2025. Candidates with expertise in mine restoration ecology, soil biogeochemistry, contaminated sites assessment, hydrogeology, surface water quality modelling, freshwater ecology, and environmental monitoring design/statistical analysis are encouraged to apply.
* Chemistry Australia has partnered with CEW to offer one woman working in the chemistry industry the opportunity to undertake the Women Transforming Leadership Programme<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/yN0JCP7LAXf5kPmlkFoUDUx2IR4?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> at Oxford Saïd Business School. Applications close 28 April.
* Applications for the ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/_MYlCQnMBZfNyYqxyi4c3UGBKUV?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> are open until 25 April 2025. This initiative supports aspiring female professionals in cybersecurity and STEM, helping advance their education and careers.
* You can have your say<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/PXA1CROND2ugzxlVzI8fNU1qwua?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> about the Australian Government’s Strategic Examination of R&D by completing gemaker’s short survey.
* Inspiring Australia Tasmania<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/J5SjCVARKgCPRYKvRCKh2UE0PSB?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> is offering small grants (up to $4,000) and large grants (between $4000 to $8000). Applications close 26 March.
* Inspiring Australia WA is offering small grants<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/TCyOCWLVXkUyWVYkWs5iwUowoRj?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> (up to $4,000) and mid-tier grants <https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/XO7DCXLW2mUMzWNJzIOsmUW6tB4?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> (up to $10,000). Applications close 31 March.
* Inspiring Australia Queensland<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/leBSCYW8Noc64wZ84IJtxUx2B3A?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> is offering seed grants (up to $4,000). Applications close 28 March.
MEMBER NEWS
[Parliament House]<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/3xQWCZY1Nqiop0RGpsLuoUB6gAT?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>
STA 2025
Post-Budget Briefing
It’s that time of year again for STA’s annual Post-Budget Briefing. The Federal Budget will be handed down on Tuesday 25 March, and will hold the Post-Budget Briefing online on Friday 28 March 1 pm AEDT. The session will cover any STEM-related announcements from the budget. Registration is essential<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/FevuC1WLPxcE9lmR9sgCNUVIRRk?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>.
[Laptop coffee and notpad]<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/Pe4PC2xMQziE9gGj9sRFYU5-oak?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>
Women in STEM
Careers Fair
Want to explore new STEM career opportunities? The 2025 iSTEM Co. Women in STEM Careers Fair<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/frxrC3QNPBiREOMBEiNHGUQsP28?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com> connects you with top employers, recruiters, and career coaches. STA is supporting 10 places for women STEM professionals – email the STA events team<mailto:events at sta.org.au?subject=2025%20iSTEM%20Co.%20Women%20in%20STEM%20Careers%20Fair%20&body=Hi%2C%0A%0AI'm%20interested%20in%20attending%20the%202025%20iSTEM%20Co.%20Women%20in%20STEM%20Careers%20Fair%20in%20Melbourne%2C%20and%20I%20would%20greatly%20appreciate%20STA's%20support%20in%20attending.%0A%0ABest%20regards%2C%0A%0A> if you’d like to attend!
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The Power of a
Nomination
STA’s 2025 Member Webinars kick off with an exciting session on the power of a nomination, chaired by STA board directors Dr Jiao Jiao Li and Mark Stickells AM. Join us online on Wednesday 26 March to hear on the importance of both being nominated and nominating others for awards and fellowships. Registration essential<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/RrKLC6XQ4LfGBq9DBsOTLU5x0w8?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>.
STA delivers strong benefits to members, including discounted professional services via our Member Benefits Program<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/Lq9xC71R2NTWJw6qJTvUWUoWlnH?domain=scienceandtechnologyaustralia.us9.list-manage.com>.
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