ANZIC Program Manager, micropaleontologist and self-described Time Lord, Dr Sarah Kachovich has been named by Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic MP as one of Australia’s newest Superstars of STEM.
Dr Kachovich is one of 60 diverse brilliant scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians chosen from a highly-competitive national field to step into the media spotlight as STEM experts and inspire the next generation of diverse young Australians into STEM fields. She also plans to use the platform to highlight the critical importance of scientific ocean drilling in our national and international research infrastructure, and contribute to diversity and inclusion advocacy in the STEM fields.
“When we lack women in the STEM fields, when we do not encourage their leadership, vision and participation, we fail to bring the diversity of knowledge, skill sets and experiences needed to keep Australia innovative, creative, and competitive,” Dr Kachovich said.
“One of the best ways to close the gender gap and encourage girls into STEM fields, while also supporting early and mid-career women to thrive in their STEM journeys, is to give them role models. I am tremendously thrilled to join the next cohort of inspiring Superstars of STEM and to polish my communication and leadership skills to better serve the public and my science.”
Announcing the latest cohort on Friday 18 November, Minister Husic said that the need to boost diversity in our science, technology, engineering and mathematics sector is urgent.
“There are huge skills shortages that can be addressed if we put our minds and collective effort to it – which means we have to draw deeply on our nation’s expertise from all corners of the community,” Mr Husic said. “By doing so, we can deliver a stellar boost to our national economy and enable Australia to meet the growing demand for STEM-trained workers.”Â
“I’ve always been a fan of the way the Superstars of STEM program pushes to deliver a diverse STEM workforce and ensures the next generation of scientists and technologists have visible role models. I just know these talented experts and communicators will play their part inspiring Australia’s young people – from all backgrounds – into science and technology.”
Science & Technology Australia Chief Executive Officer Misha Schubert said the program gave women and non-binary talent in STEM crucial skills and confidence to step into expert commentary roles in the media.
“We know it’s really hard to be what you can’t see,” Ms Schubert said. “That’s why this game-changing program is helping to smash 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 – that STEM is for them.”
“Superstars of STEM is powerfully shifting the dial on diversity in Australia’s science and technology sectors. The Australian Government’s investment in this world-leading program is bolstering diversity in a sector that will shape our future economy. We are so grateful for it.”
Enjoying an ice cream under the ship’s derrick in Antarctica, while WOW’ing (Wait On Weather). IODP Exp 382: Iceberg Alley 
Leading the last core of IODP Exp 362 down the catwalk with a team of international women, off the coast of Sumatra
Superstars of STEM is an initiative of Science & Technology Australia funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources.
Through a highly competitive selection process, the program selects 60 women and non-binary STEM experts and gives them the training, confidence, networks and experience to become sought-after media commentators as experts in their fields. This latest group of Superstars of STEM will join the program in 2023 and 2024.
About Science & Technology Australia
Science & Technology Australia is the nation’s peak body representing more than 105,000 scientists and technologists. We’re the leading policy voice on science and technology. Our flagship programs include Science Meets Parliament, Superstars of STEM, and STA STEM Ambassadors.