UQ scientists among Australia’s science stars

Four researchers from The University of Queensland have been recognised by the Australian Academy of Science for outstanding contributions in their fields.

From medical discoveries to climate change mitigation, the UQ scientists are among 22 of the nation’s leading minds honoured.

Professor David Craik and Professor Catherine Lovelock received awards to acknowledge career-long advancements in their fields.

Professor Di Yu and Associate Professor Teresa Ubide were recognised with mid- and early-career awards.

Professor Craik received the David Craig Medal and Lecture for the discovery of a family of plant molecules – or peptides – that can be harnessed for a range of applications including new drug classes and eco-friendly pesticides.

Professor Craik named “cyclotides” and has become a world leader in defining their structures, functions and applications.

Professor Lovelock received the Suzanne Cory Medal for her work on the important role of coastal ecosystems in mitigating climate change.

As a leading global expert, Professor Lovelock’s research focusses on coastal and marine ecology and their plant communities, such as mangroves.

Professor Yu was awarded the Jacques Miller Medal for his outstanding contributions in experimental biomedicine including discoveries about the immune system’s production of antibodies and the potential role they play in boosting the efficacy of vaccines.

Associate Professor Ubide received the Anton Hales Medal for her investigation into what triggers a volcanic eruption, which could help millions of people who live near a volcano through better forecasting.

Her study into the chemistry of crystals in volcanic rocks not only helps increase understanding of volcanic triggers but also aims to explore the link between volcanoes and metals that are needed for renewable energy technologies.

Read more about the awardees or nominate for the Australian Academy of Science’s 2024 honorific awards.