Curtin astrophysicist named a Superstar of STEM

A Curtin University astrophysicist whose research investigates how stars are destroyed by supermassive black holes has been named a Superstar of STEM.

Announced today by the Minister for Industry and Science the Hon Ed Husic MP, Dr Adelle Goodwin, from Curtin’s School of Electrical Engineering, Computing and Mathematical Sciences and the Curtin University node of the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR), was named among 60 diverse, brilliant scientists, technologists, engineers, and mathematicians.

The Superstars of STEM program is a game-changing Australian initiative to smash gender assumptions about who can work in science, technology, engineering, and maths. Created by Science and Technology Australia in 2017, it has contributed to helping improve the gender inequality of diverse role models featured in the media as STEM experts.

Curtin University Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Professor Chris Moran congratulated Dr Goodwin on being recognised as a Superstar of STEM.

“Dr Goodwin’s leading research in the field of astronomy has contributed greatly to our understanding of the Universe and helped to raise the profile of women in STEM, inspiring other female researchers to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering, and maths,” Professor Moran said.

“A passionate science communicator and advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM, Dr Goodwin currently serves as the Chair of the ICRAR-Curtin development committee. Dr Goodwin is also a regular public speaker who engages with the public about her research and her experience as a female science researcher. Dr Goodwin is a most deserving recipient of this prestigious title.”

Dr Goodwin said she was honoured to be recognised alongside other Superstars of STEM across the nation.

“I have always been passionate about science, space and our Universe, and I am dedicated to helping encourage young scientists and researchers to pursue a career in these fields,” Dr Goodwin said.

“It is also critical to ensure the field of science is diverse and equal when it comes to gender representation, and I am a regular advocate for helping young female researchers build their career in male-dominated research fields. I am thrilled to be recognised for my work in this space and look forward to building upon this in the years to come.”

Superstars of STEM is an initiative of Science and Technology Australia and funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources. The next 60 Superstars of STEM will join the program in 2023 and 2024.

The full list of recipients can be found online here.