Director named a superstar
Scientist works towards equality
UNIVERSITY of Southern Queensland office of research development director Erin Rayment has been named a national superstar of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
Dr Rayment was one of 60 scientists, technologists and educators chosen for Science and Technology Australia’s coveted 2019-20 Superstars of STEM program.
The program aims to create a mass of celebrity Australian female scientists and technologists, to work towards equal representation in the media of women and men working in all fields in STEM.
The two-year program will provide a platform for Dr Rayment to connect with hundreds of school children, as well as local, national and international media opportunities to serve as a representative for her work.
“Throughout my career, I’ve often been the only woman in the room. I firmly believe in the statement that ‘you can’t be what you can’t see’, therefore it’s important to raise our own profiles and do everything that we can to bring other women through the pipeline,” Dr Rayment said.
“By capturing a young audience and cultivating it to ensure they continue their appreciation for STEM skills over their lifetime, means that we will continue to grow and develop as a society.
“Unfortunately, in Australia and overseas, there has been a steady loss of trust in scientific opinion and the data behind them.”
USQ vice-chancellor professor Geraldine Mackenzie commended Dr Rayment on being selected for the program.
Prof Mackenzie said Dr Rayment was passionate about science which ensured her as the perfect candidate.