Nicholas Smith has bug to help others
parasitologist and immunologist, and to higher education.
Although a “bit shocked”, he said having a great supervisor and mentor at university and the opportunity to continue studying was a big factor in his successful career.
Discovering a parasite that infects chickens, which resulted in a vaccine, has been one of Professor Smith’s biggest achievements.
“I have got a project now looking at a parasite in cats, which infects humans as well,” he said. “But the most satisfaction I’ve had was when I was put in charge of a research network. That wasn’t about my work, that was about other people’s work, especially young people. It is satisfying to see young people’s career development, and see them get overseas for experience and studies they otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to get.”
His own experience overseas has provided reassurance in the quality and standard of Australian science.
“The overseas work really cemented that science is a global thing. People have different points of view and people think a different way when they speak another language,” he said.
“As an Australian it’s good to go overseas, even though you’re far away and not sure what you’re doing sometimes, you get a wider view of things and understand that we are doing all right.”
Professor Smith recently started a new job at University of Technology Sydney as head of biology and biotechnology but returns every few weeks to see his wife and colleagues at James Cook University in Cairns. JAMES Cook University Vice Chancellor Professor Sandra Harding has thanked her husband and two daughters for their support after she was appointed an Officer in the General Division of the Order of Australia in the Australia Day 2019 honours list.
Professor Harding has been recognised for her distinguished service to education at the national and international level, and to the community of Queensland.
JCU Chancellor Bill Tweddell said Professor Harding was an exceptional leader.
“To all that she undertakes, Professor Harding brings not just professional skills of the very highest order but also outstanding personal attributes: exemplary ethical standards and integrity, and highly developed leadership and management skills,” he said.
“Professor Harding has been an emphatic advocate of the importance and great potential of Northern Australia in the Tropics and beyond. Perhaps her most eminent achievement was her initiative to establish the State of the Tropics project, which has resulted in the United Nations declaring an International Day of the Tropics.”
Professor Harding said she was most grateful to have received the award.
“It’s testimony to the good fortune I have had working with so many outstanding colleagues and friends over the years,” she said.