Dr Goreham named ‘Superstar of STEM’
The University of Newcastle’s Dr Renee Goreham has been named one of Australia’s new Superstars of STEM, joining a select group of 60 scientists, technologists, engineers, and mathematicians recognised for their contributions to the field and their commitment to inspiring future generations.
Announced on Wednesday by the Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic MP, the Superstars of STEM program highlights the diversity and talent of women and non-binary individuals in Australian science and technology.
Over the next two years, these Superstars will undergo intensive training to build their media skills and confidence as public commentators, while also conducting hundreds of school visits to inspire young people to pursue STEM careers.
Dr Goreham, a Senior Lecturer in Physics at the University and an affiliate of Hunter Medical Research Institute, specialises in nanotechnology for sensing applications. Her research includes developing innovative devices like breathalysers for early lung cancer detection by using aptamers to target extracellular vesicles in breath samples.
Growing up in Port Augusta, South Australia, Dr Goreham was inspired by her high school physics teacher to pursue a career in science.
“She showed me that I could achieve more than I imagined,” Dr Goreham said.
“I wanted to discover the undiscovered.”
The recognition of Dr Goreham as a Superstar of STEM underscores her exceptional contributions to science and her dedication to fostering the next generation of scientists and innovators.
Dr Goreham said she was excited to inspire the next generation, especially young women from rural areas.
“Sharing my journey and research on a national platform can make STEM more accessible, relatable, and exciting,” Dr Goreham said.
“I want to see more young women confidently stepping into physics classrooms and labs.”
Science & Technology Australia Deputy CEO and Superstars of STEM Program Manager Dr Sandra Gardam said the program was powerfully changing public perceptions of scientists in the media.
“We know it’s really hard to be what you can’t see,” she said.
“This world-leading program is smashing stereotypes of what a scientist, technologist, engineer or mathematician looks like.”
“By becoming highly visible role models in the media, these Superstars of STEM are showing our diverse next generations of young people – especially our girls and non-binary kids, regardless of where they live and whatever their background – that STEM is for them.”
“The need to inspire diverse young minds into the science, technology, engineering and mathematics sector is urgent,” she said.
“Careers in STEM are predicted to grow by at least 14% in coming years – more than twice the rate of non-STEM jobs. The country needs a STEM-trained workforce to meet this need, and the Superstars of STEM will play a vital role in inspiring young people into those science and technology careers.”
Superstars of STEM is an initiative of Science & Technology Australia, funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources. The program equips participants with the tools to become sought-after media commentators and influential voices in their fields.
Dr Goreham said she was particularly looking forward to engaging with the community.
“This opportunity allows me to inspire young minds while advancing the understanding and appreciation of physics and nanotechnology,” Dr Goreham said.
Contact
- Media & Communications Specialist, Penny Harnett
- Email: media@newcastle.edu.au
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