Maths Trailblazer from University of Western Australia Named International Fellow

The University of Western Australia’s Emeritus Professor Cheryl Praeger is one of more than 100 new Fellows appointed by the International Science Council, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to promoting science as a global public good.

Professor Praeger said she was thrilled to learn she had been appointed a Fellow of the International Science Council (ISC).

“The ISC is the international voice of science for the public good,” she said.

“I saw this role of the ISC in action during my term as member of the ISC’s Committee for Freedom and Responsibility in Science, and I am very pleased to see the ISC’s role this year promoting the formation of a new Pacific national science academy in our region.

“Currently I have the privilege to serve on the National Science and Technology Council providing science advice to the Prime Minister and other Ministers, and I look forward to this new opportunity to contribute through the ISC.”

Professor Praeger was awarded the Prime Minister’s Prize for Science in 2019 and recognised with a Companion of the Order of Australia in the 2021 Australia Day Honours.

At the age of just 35 and with two young children, Professor Praeger became a professor of mathematics — the second, and youngest, woman in Australian history to do so and the first in WA.

The new ISC Fellows include eminent social and natural scientists, engineers and thought leaders who have made impactful contributions to science and society.  They hail from different countries and regions, disciplines, sectors and career stages; having been nominated by ISC Members and existing Fellows, and by partners such as the InterAcademy Partnership.