University of Wollongong hosts the official NSW launch as 10 days of public events put science and Illawarra research on show
The University of Wollongong (UOW) Science Space hosted the official New South Wales (NSW) launch of National Science Week on Tuesday 11 August, kicking off a 10-day program of public events showcasing the research, innovation and science shaping the Illawarra.
National Science Week (15 – 23 August) is Australia’s annual celebration of science and technology.
From medical innovation to climate science, astronomy and the natural environment, UOW’s Science Week program brings researchers, students, industry and the community together across the South Coast from 11 – 22 August.
UOW Vice-Chancellor and President Professor G.Q. Max Lu AO said the program demonstrates the important role universities play in connecting science and research with communities and future industries.
“Science has the power to change the way we understand our world and solve some of its biggest challenges,” Professor Lu said. “National Science Week gives us an opportunity to highlight the world-class discoveries happening at UOW and how research creates meaningful impact for our communities and our future.”
NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong the Hon Paul Scully MP officially launched National Science Week in NSW at the event, Science & Country, at UOW Science Space on Tuesday 11 August.
“The Illawarra is home to some of Australia’s most exciting research and innovation, and hosting the NSW launch of Science Week is a chance to showcase the talent and ideas that are helping drive the future of our region,” Mr Scully said.
Hosted by Inspiring Australia NSW, the launch featured a panel discussion of leading UOW researchers who will explore how Indigenous ways of knowing and Western research can come together for better science to deepen our understanding of the natural world and ourselves.
Associate Professor Theresa Larkin from the Graduate School of Medicine coordinates UOW’s Science Week program each year and will take part in the panel discussion.
“National Science Week gives us a chance to take UOW research out of the laboratory and share it with the people and communities it’s designed to benefit,” Associate Professor Larkin said. “It’s also a wonderful opportunity to inspire curiosity, show young people what’s possible through science and highlight the UOW researchers and their discoveries.”
Other program highlights include:
- Manufacturing the Future, where early and mid-career researchers will explore UOW’s role in building the Illawarra’s emerging green hydrogen and battery manufacturing industries;
- Allan Sefton Memorial Lecture, delivered by coastal geomorphologist Emeritus Professor Colin Woodroffe on ‘Rising Sea Level and Resilient Coasts’;
- ABC Illawarra’s Mornings with Nick Reinberger broadcasting live from campus;
- National Marie Curie Lecture featuring astrophysicist Dr Karelle Siellez;
- and Science on the South Coast which will transform the Eurobodalla and Shoalhaven campuses into hubs of science activities.
National Science Week is supported by the Australian Government. Most events are free with registration required to attend. For more details go to National Science Week with UOW.
