EMBARGOED UNTIL:6:00pm TUESDAY 30th JULY 2013
MEDIA RELEASE
CELEBRATING OUR TALLEST POPPIES –
SA’S BEST YOUNG SCIENTISTS AWARDED
Researchers in climate extremes, next-generation materials and
mathematical biology were among the winners of the prestigious 2013
Tall Poppy Awards, announced at a formal Reception at Government House on
Tuesday 30th July 2013.
The tremendous potential of South Australian science was on display tonight as Adelaide’s best
and brightest young science researchers were celebrated at Government House.
Each year the Tall Poppy Awards recognise individuals who combine world-class research with a
passionate commitment to communicating science and who demonstrate great leadership
potential. This year nine exciting young scientists were chosen from disciplines spanning health
and climate change research, materials science and mathematics.
The Reception was attended by more than 80 leading representatives of the science, technology,
engineering and mathematics sectors from universities, business, government and industry
groups.
His Excellency Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce AC CSC RANR, Governor of South Australia, presented
the awards with Professor Ross McKinnon, Director of Research at the Flinders Centre for
Innovation in Cancer and South Australian Director of the Tall Poppy Campaign.
In support of the awards, Minister for Science and Information Economy, the Hon Grace Portolesi
said: “The South Australian science landscape continues to prove a vibrant and pioneering
research community. The South Australian Tall Poppy Award winners are a testament to the
innovative and exciting science that our state is generating.
“Not only is their work world-class, they have taken an active role in inspiring others to consider
careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). As scientists and as leaders
in their fields, they are to be commended.
“STEM skills are critical in reaping the benefits of our emerging industries including mining and
advanced manufacturing as well as the opportunities of the digital economy.
“I congratulate all the Tall Poppy Award winners for the dedication and initiative
that it took to win this prestigious accolade,” Minister Portolesi said.
2013 TALL POPPY AWARD WINNERS
From THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Dr Carol Maher – Research Field: Public Health, lifestyle and health epidemiology
Dr Carol Maher’s research helps us better understand the links between daily activity
and health. She conducted world first research into the benefits of physical activity for
children with cerebral palsy and continues to work in the study and promotion of
exercise for children with disabilities.
Dr Drew Evans – Research Field: Materials Science
Dr Drew Evans’ research focuses on the development of advanced materials and nano-scale
coatings for common Drew’s research led to the development of a lightweight and shatter-proof
plastic car mirror that is now being included on many new Ford cars globally. He is now
investigating how the technology can be adapted for collecting solar energy and use in energy
efficient lighting.
Dr Roger Yazbeck – Research Field: Gastroenterology
Dr Roger Yazbeck is currently developing a simple breath test for cancer of the oesophagus.
Oesophageal cancer is one of the deadliest forms of the disease yet early detection can improve
five year survival rates by up to 95%. Roger’s research will hopefully translate to a non-invasive
early detection test that will save many lives.
Dr Dominic Thewlis – Research Field: Biomechanics
Dr Dominic Thewlis’ research explores the important relationship between the mechanics of a
joint, the progression of degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis and the effectiveness of
joint replacements. Using advanced computer simulations he has recently begun to investigate if
biomechanics can partially explain why joints wear out.
From THE UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE
Dr Seth Westra – Research Field: Hydroclimatology and climate extremes
Dr Seth Westra studies the effect of climate change on weather extremes, such as droughts and
floods. His research has shown that both droughts and floods will become increasingly severe as
the planet continues to warm. He has been involved in capacity building activities in Mexico,
community organisations and also maintains his own blog.
Dr Lisa Moran – Research Field: Obesity, nutrition and women’s health
Dr Lisa Moran works on improving the health of overweight women, and reducing the associated
risks of infertility, diabetes, heart disease and poor mental health. Her research results in a
reduced risk of pregnancy complications, reduced side-effects of conditions such as polycystic
ovary syndrome and provides a foundation to secure a healthier future for newborn children.
Dr Joshua Ross – Research Field: Applied Mathematics and Mathematical Biology
Dr Joshua Ross’ research focuses on developing new mathematical and statistical models to give
insight into the factors that are important in the spread of diseases. Joshua’s models enable us to
better determine the optimal use of control mechanisms, such as drugs or vaccines, in
preventing or minimising the threat of future pandemics.
Dr Luke Selth – Research Field: Cancer Biology
Dr Luke Selth focuses on improving diagnosis for prostate cancer, the leading cause of cancerrelated death in the Western World. Luke’s work is helping to identify new blood biomarkers to
revolutionise the clinical management of prostate cancer and yield insight into the molecular
mechanisms behind prostate cancer metastasis.
Dr Paul Medwell – Research Field: Combustion and laser diagnostics
Dr Paul Medwell investigates methods for more efficient, less polluting combustion technologies.
His work looks at ways of better understanding the fundamental aspects of flames to create new
combustion systems that produce lower emissions.
For more information or contact details for the winners:
Grant Mills, State Manager, Tall Poppy Campaign – South Australia
M 0424 026 869 | T 08 8207 8734 | E [email protected]