2021 Queensland Women in STEM Prize recipients announced

Congratulations to the five outstanding women named as recipients of the 2021 Queensland Women in STEM Prize. 

Now in its sixth year and presented by Queensland Museum Network and the Queensland Government, the prize recognises women who are making a difference to the world, in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) fields. 

The Judges' Award was awarded to Chloe Yap from the Mater Research Institute within the Translational Research Institute and the Institute for Molecular Bioscience at The University of Queensland. Chloe is using “big data” approaches to try to improve early autism diagnosis. Currently, without any biological “tests”, diagnosis is a major bottleneck that determines whether an autistic child is adequately supported and able to thrive.

The Inclusion Award was awarded to Christabel Webber from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. Born profoundly deaf, and as a qualified researcher working in regional farming to help ensure food security, Christabel seeks to improve soil health and produce higher grain yield.

Highly Commended Awards were presented to:

• Fiona Holmstrom, co-founder and director of STEM Punks, who is passionate about ensuring equality in education for girls in STEM.
• Kate Kingston, Griffith University, who is investigating techniques for wine growers to improve their soil health by adding organic matter known as biochar.
• Sally McPhee, Griffith University, who is passionate about taking cutting-edge STEM out of the labs and onto the streets by providing STEM pathways, leadership and engagement opportunities for school students and improving teacher confidence and capability in science.

The 2021 Queensland Women in STEM Prize recognises the valuable contribution of Queensland women working in STEM careers.