221118_Amanda-Khoury_Garvan-Institute

Dr Amanda Khoury will take part in an acclaimed national program, becoming a role model for the next generation of scientists.

Garvan researcher announced as a Superstar of STEM

A scientist from the Garvan Institute of Medical Research has been selected for the 2023-2024 Superstars of STEM Program by Science Technology Australia.

Research Officer Dr Amanda Khoury joins the cohort of 60 scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians announced by the Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic MP today.

Superstars of STEM raises the profile of talented women and non-binary people in science and technology, equipping them with advanced communication skills and experience in the media, on stage and in schools. Its aim is to create a national critical mass of visible, relatable and diverse role models in STEM.

Dr Khoury, who works in the Epigenetics Research Laboratory, is the first Garvan researcher to be selected for the highly competitive program since its inauguration in 2017. 

“I want to communicate science to the general public in a way that makes them feel closely involved in the work we do in medical research,” says Dr Khoury.

“I believe it is possible for everyone to understand even the most complicated concepts if they are communicated effectively. I’m looking forward to accessing strong mentorship in the Superstars of STEM Program to help me hone this skill – with the aim of empowering young people to realise their potential,” she says.

Minister Husic congratulated the newest Superstars of STEM on stepping up to help inspire the next generations of diverse young Australians to go into STEM fields.

“The need to boost diversity in our science, technology, engineering and mathematics sector is urgent,” he said in a statement.

"There are huge skills shortages that can be addressed if we put our collective effort to it – which means we have to draw deeply on our nation’s expertise from all corners of the community,” he said.

Professor Susan Clark, Head of the Epigenetics Research Laboratory at Garvan, says the program is an important step towards gender equity in STEM fields.

“We congratulate Dr Khoury on being selected for this exciting opportunity,” Professor Clark says.

“At the Garvan Institute we are committed to creating an equitable and inclusive workplace and helping address systemic barriers to gender representation in the scientific community. That’s why we wholeheartedly support and encourage professional opportunities like Superstars of STEM to bolster diversity,” she says.

“We hope to empower current and future generations of scientists of all genders and backgrounds to pursue rewarding academic careers and make vital contributions to the discussion of science in the public arena,” she says.

Superstars of STEM is funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources. The program will commence in January 2023.