Emeritus Professor John O'Connor
Convocation Medal for Exceptional Contribution - 2024
Emeritus Professor John O’Connor stands as a beacon of influence and advocacy within the University of Newcastle community since joining the University in 1981 as a member of staff. John’s profound contributions have shaped the institution’s trajectory in science, education, and community engagement.
John’s passion for science began long before his monumental achievements at the University.
“I think I've always been interested in science. It more evolved out of mathematics. Mathematics was my great strength when I was younger. But that then led to identifying how mathematics was used and where it was useful.”
John’s early fascination with mathematics laid the foundation for a career defined by discovery and problem-solving. A significant force in materials science and surface physics, John’s research prowess has garnered over $18.7 million in funding, he has supervised numerous research students and yielded over 200 scholarly publications. His research on how particles lose energy in solids has been crucial for improving models in ion implantation for semiconductors, analysing materials, and advancing hadron therapy.
Outside the laboratory, John’s influence stretches into education and science communication. His partnerships with Mike Gore, the founder of Canberra’s Questacon, and Tim Roberts, the creator of Newcastle’s Supernova, were driven by a deep passion to spark curiosity in young minds and foster a lasting love for science that continues to inspire today.
One of his most notable achievements was driving the expansion of the Science and Engineering Challenge, a national outreach program that has motivated thousands of students to pursue careers in STEM. This initiative, which has won prestigious accolades including the Sir William Hudson Award for Outstanding Engineering Excellence, the Business and Higher Education Round Table award and the United Nations Day Honour, has played a pivotal role in boosting enrolment in the University of Newcastle’s science, mathematics, and engineering programs.
“The Science and Engineering Challenge changes the perceptions about what a career in science or engineering is about. We have showed students that a career in science or engineering involves problem solving, teamwork, creativity, innovation.”
2024 Alumni Excellence Award Recipient | Emeritus Professor John O'Connor 1:32
John’s influence stretches well beyond Australia, with the Science and Engineering Challenge making its mark in New Zealand, Fiji, Singapore, and even reaching as far as England. His international collaborations with leading institutions like Fudan University (China) and Imperial College (UK) have led to significant advancements in materials science, particularly in enhancing the resilience of materials used in critical applications such as nuclear reactors. These collaborations have further cemented his reputation as a global leader in his field.
As an Emeritus Professor within the College of Engineering, Science, and Environment, John continues to inspire through his leadership and commitment to excellence. His engaging radio broadcasts on 2NURFM share the impact of scientific discoveries, educating the broader community and encouraging future generations to pursue careers in STEM fields.
“STEM as a career is invaluable because it impacts so many areas. Science creates the innovations and the explanations for how we can do things better. I'd like to see a future in which science communication isn't an activity that we have to do. It becomes ingrained in the whole education system so that students then go on to fulfill the opportunities that science and engineering offer. That would be the greatest thing if I could look back and see that and think, I played a part in that.”
John’s contributions have not only enriched the University community but have also set a standard of achievement that continues to inspire and shape the future of education and research.
Emeritus Professor John O’Connor’s life and career exemplify the power of curiosity, the pursuit of knowledge, and the importance of inspiring future generations. His work has left an indelible mark on the University of Newcastle and the broader scientific community, ensuring that his influence will be felt for years to come.
“There are so many interesting discoveries made every day. These things will change your life and they're happening right now, and you can be part of it. It doesn't take an Einstein to be a scientist or an engineer. It takes someone to have an interest and to apply themselves to science and maths.”
Emeritus Professor John O'Connor
Physicist, Researcher, Science Communicator Chair, National Council for the Science and Engineering Challenge
The Science and Engineering Challenge changes the perceptions about what a career in science or engineering is about. We have showed students that a career in science or engineering involves problem solving, teamwork, creativity, innovation.
Alumni Excellence Awards
Convocation Medal for Exceptional Contribution
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