2019 UQ Awards for Excellence

Associate Professor Dilum Fernando

Associate Professor Dilum Fernando is the lead inventor of the novel double-skin tubular arch (DSTA) bridge system, which was awarded the BERD-FEUP Prize for World Innovation in Bridge Engineering. The DSTA bridge has the potential to reduce major bridge works projects from months or even years to just three days saving time, money and inconvenience. The new bridge design can be prefabricated, transported on a semi-trailer and erected without the need for specialised heavy lifting equipment overcame many challenges. A case study demonstrated that building a railway bridge overpass in Brisbane using this technology would take just 78 hours and save $120 million over the traditional build cost.

RDM iDMP-IV Fast-track Team

This team consists of a partnered collaboration between Library, Information Technology Services, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Research Infrastructure and UQ Research Data Manager (UQRDM). The project delivers a streamlined, cost-efficient, and integrated research data management program (iDMP) which significantly improves the research lifecycle processes and advances both the experiences of staff and HDR student researchers. UQRDM takes a unique and innovative One UQ approach to co-create an enabling research management toolbox that easily allows all national and international researchers to collaboratively address complex global issues. UQRDM's diverse team applied both intellectual and creative excellence to produce a world's first university-level iDMP, which functions by demonstrating a high standard of ethics and accountability throughout.

• Dr Rebecca Deuble
• Dr Leslie Elliot
• Dr Andrew Janke
• Ms Sandrine Kingston-Ducrot
• Ms Helen Morgan
• Dr Amberyn Thomas
• Ms Susan Wilson
• Mr Jan Wisgerhof
• Ms Fei Yu

 

Medical Student Support Strategy Team

In 2018 the Faculty of Medicine and Student Services worked together to develop the Medical Student Support Strategy in response to student feedback and community concerns regarding doctors health and well-being. This strategy delivers a new way of working which has transformed the medical student experience through a range of interventions and initiatives designed in a bespoke manner, working across central and faculty services to provide the best possible experience and outcomes for the 2000+ students enrolled in UQ's MD program. The strategy is grounded in a strong foundation of culture and leadership that fosters a sustainable culture of student support throughout the medical student lifecycle.

• Ms Keira Anderson
• Professor Stuart Carney
• Ms Andrea Strachan

School of Psychology WRAP Team

The School of Psychology at UQ teaches the largest Honours cohort in Australia. Undaunted by the numbers, the School of Psychology's Work and Research in Applied Psychology (WRAP) team created a work-integrated placement course for 150 Honours students per year. With this innovation, UQ students critically apply their psychology knowledge and skills off-campus in industry, government or research contexts. Students gain the confidence and perspective that arise from a successful workplace experience, while enhancing UQ's reputation amongst external stakeholders. The WRAP course has re-framed psychology training at UQ, with its outstanding reputation for academic excellence, as highly marketable to both students and the diverse industries seeking to employ them.

• Professor Paul Dux
• Ms Stephanie Kerr
• Dr Natasha Matthews
• Mr Jordan Reutas

Associate Professor Dilum Fernando, School of Civil Engineering

Nomination 1:

A/Professor Dilum Fernando is the lead inventor of the novel double-skin tubular arch (DSTA) bridge system, which was awarded the BERD-FEUP Prize for World Innovation in Bridge Engineering. The award-winning innovation - a double skin tubular arch bridge - has the potential to reduce major bridge works projects from months or even years to just three days saving time, money and inconvenience. The new bridge design can be prefabricated, transported on a semi-trailer and erected without the need for specialised heavy lifting equipment overcame many challenges. A case study demonstrated that building a railway bridge overpass in Brisbane using this technology would take just 78 hours and save $120 million over the traditional build cost. DSTA bridge was also shown to reduce weight by 65% compared to a traditional pre-stressed concrete girder bridge of the same capacity and reduce CO2 emissions by at least 35%.

Nomination 2:

A novel double-skin tubular arch (DSTA) bridge system was developed by a team led by the nominee at UQ as a collaborative effort of several organisations. This new bridge system utilised hybrid double-skin tubular members which consist of an outer FRP tube, an inner steel tube and a layer of concrete sandwiched between them. DSTA bridges are light-weight, durable, low-cost and rapid to construct, thus providing a highly attractive alternative to traditional bridge designs. DSTA bridge was shown to reduce weight by 65% compared to a traditional pre-stressed concrete girder bridge of the same capacity and reduce CO2 emissions by at least 35%. This project also won the USD 50,000 grand prize for BERD-FEUP Prize for World Innovation in Bridge Engineering (over 230 entries from all around the world, including industry giants such as TY Lin, Liang O'Rourke and top universities such as ETHZ, UC Berkeley).

Dr Kirsty Short, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences

Dr Kirsty Short is a highly accomplished young scientist with a stellar track record. Despite being only five years post‐PhD, she has an outstanding publication track record. Kirsty also has an impressive funding track record having been awarded a CJ Martin Early Career Research fellowship (2013), a UQ Development Fellowship (2017) and an Australian Research Council Discovery Early Career Researcher Award fellowship (2017). Kirsty has received funding for her research from industry, the university, federal funding agencies and from national societies. She also has an impressive list of awards to her name, including in 2018 the L'Oréal Women in Science award and in 2017 the Queensland Young Tall Poppy Science Award; the Women in Technology Life Science Rising Star Award as well as winning the UNSW/ABC 'Top 5 Australian Scientists under 40' competition in 2016. Kirsty has built a successful network of continuing collaborations at the local, national and international level that are testimony to the quality of her work as well as her personality.

Professor George Zhao, School of Chemical Engineering

Prof Zhao published 388 papers in peer-reviewed international journals, 14 books and book chapters, 8 patents, and 150 conference abstracts/papers. His publications have received over 30,000 citations with an h-index of 82 (Google Scholar, Jan 2019). He has 28 Highly Cited Papers across the ESI fields of Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, and Physics. He is Thomson Reuters Highly Cited Researcher in 2016 and 2018. Prof Zhao's leadership role in research is also reflected by 12 invited review articles published in leading journals of his field, being journal editorial members, plenary/keynote and invited talks at nearly 30 international conferences/symposia. In the past 5 years, 66% of Prof Zhao's publications are co-authored with researchers in other countries.

Business Policy and Strategy Teaching Staff

This team has successfully introduced innovative approaches to enhance the student learning experience in large course formats. They have introduced interactive seminars, case studies and simulations to deliver a highly successful capstone learning experience for the Bachelor of Business Management.

• Dr Stuart Middleton
• Mr Amit Sharma
• Mr Ross Strong
• Associate Professor April Wright

Digital Environment - My.UQ program

The University of Queensland has a long history of information technology leadership: in 1961, we were one of the first universities in Australia to purchase an "Automatic Digital Computer" and in 2000 we were the first university in Australia to offer an online enrolment portal. Our outstanding digital environment is a result of the efforts of the current team and previous contributors to significantly improve student and staff success through enhancing, streamlining and transforming the university's online systems, including our student-related digital assets, information architecture and service delivery. The team's dedication to improving the student and staff experience by applying good information design alongside broad community consultation and exceptional technical knowledge has delivered a substantial change to the way UQ is represented to the world and our internal stakeholders, and will continue to positively impact student and staff success for many years to come.

• Mr Sagar Bhindi
• Ms Leigh Brewster
• Mr Brett Crunkhorn
• Mr Greg Eaton
• Ms Sofie Falkenbach
• Ms Rowena Grant-Frost
• Ms Angela Hartman
• Mr Ross Hellings
• Ms Winky Lau
• Ms Jen Lui
• Mr Nathan Millington
• Ms Gina Paterson
• Mr David Pollitt
• Mr Craig Rawlins
• Mr Richard Rerrie
• Mr Liam Tan
• Ms Carlie Tucker
• Ms Kelly Williamson

Medical Student Support Strategy Team

In 2018 the Faculty of Medicine and Student Services worked together to develop the Medical Student Support Strategy in response to student feedback and community concerns regarding doctors health and well-being. This strategy delivers a new way of working which has transformed the medical student experience through a range of interventions and initiatives designed in a bespoke manner, working across central and faculty services providing the best possible experience and outcomes for the 2000+ students enrolled in UQ's MD program. The strategy is purposely grounded in a strong foundation of culture and leadership that fosters a sustainable culture of student support throughout the medical student lifecycle. In 2018 the strategy established the Medical Student Support Team which has already seen long lasting benefits for both students progressing through the medicine program into safe committed practitioners but also enhanced staff capacity to provide an outstanding student experience.

• Ms Keira Anderson
• Professor Stuart Carney
• Ms Andrea Strachan

Methylscape: A Universal DNA Nano-signature for Cancer

A convenient, accurate, and non-invasive pan-cancer test that could be prescribed or performed by a GP could revolutionise current cancer screening systems. Recently, Methylscape team discovered a unique DNA nanostructure that appears to be a universal trace marker for cancer in blood and tissue samples. Specifically, they discovered that fragments of cancer DNA fold into unique three dimensional structures in water that also have a special affinity for gold surfaces. The team then developed simple methods to detect this cancerous DNA nano-signature using either gold nanoparticles or gold electrodes. This technology can detect a wide range of cancer types with high sensitivity. Moreover, it is extremely simple, requires only a small amount of blood sample, and is able to deliver results within ten minutes. The team published their discovery in the journal Nature Communications. The discovery has received significant media and scientific attention since it was published in Dec 2018.

• Dr Laura Carrascosa
• Dr Abu Sina
• Professor Matt Trau

OneNet Team

UQ's motto of Create Change underpins the mindset of the OneNet team. Their work in creating a world-class network environment will support the University for years to come. The basis of the design is agile and adaptable and provides 100Gb connections to research buildings, where it was previously 10Gb. This design transcends the capability of the University by providing the backbone for new capability. As a direct result of the OneNet project, the team were able to forge ahead and provide the University with 100Gb Internet through a partnership with AARNet, the University carrier. The new network provides greater stability and capability to the 60,000 staff, students and researchers of UQ.

• Mr Shaun Diefenbach
• Mr Jayan Jayanathan
• Mr Jooil Lee
• Mr Aaron McDowall
• Mr Dion Pearce

RDM iDMP-IV Fast-track Team

The product of a partnered collaboration between Library, Information Technology Services, PVC RI and UQ Research Data Manager (UQRDM) delivers a streamlined, cost-efficient, and integrated research data management program (iDMP) which significantly improves the research lifecycle processes and advances both the experiences of staff and HDR student researchers. UQRDM takes a unique and innovative one UQ approach to co-create an enabling research management toolbox that easily allows all national and international researchers to collaboratively address complex global issues. UQRDM's diverse team applied both intellectual and creative excellence to produce a world's first university level iDMP, which functions by demonstrating a high standard of ethics and accountability throughout.

• Dr Rebecca Deuble
• Dr Leslie Elliot
• Dr Andrew Janke
• Ms Sandrine Kingston-Ducrot
• Ms Helen Morgan
• Dr Amberyn Thomas
• Ms Susan Wilson
• Mr Jan Wisgerhof
• Ms Fei Yu

School of Psychology WRAP Team

The School of Psychology at UQ teaches the largest Honours cohort in Australia. Undaunted by the numbers, the School of Psychology's Work and Research in Applied Psychology (WRAP) team created a work-integrated placement course for 150 Honours students per year. With this innovation, UQ students critically apply their psychology knowledge and skills off-campus in industry, government or research contexts. Students gain the confidence and perspective that arise from a successful workplace experience, while enhancing UQ's reputation amongst external stakeholders. The WRAP course has re-framed psychology training at UQ, with its outstanding reputation for academic excellence, as highly marketable to both students and the diverse industries seeking to employ them.

• Professor Paul Dux
• Ms Stephanie Kerr
• Dr Natasha Matthews
• Mr Jordan Reutas

Team ITaLIB

Preemptive strategic leadership by Team ITaLIB enabled almost 10,000 UQ students to voice their digital literacy experiences and needs through the online UQ Student Technology Survey. The Survey provided timely and resource efficient empirical baseline data to inform institutional decision makers when they were wrestling with BYOD (bring your own device) and eAssessment, provision of university-wide digital infrastructure, ensuring digital equity and accessibility, and the integration of digital learning activities in curricula. Beyond informing numerous UQ strategic projects, the successful implementation, high response rate, and quality results from the Survey informed the wider sector and sparked positive national and international press coverage.

• Dr Simon Collyer
• Mr Nick Fitt
• Associate Professor Pedro Isaias
• Dr Sam McKenzie
• Dr Christine Slade
• Ms Kathleen Smeaton
• Mr Jacob Tilse
• Ms Noela Yates

TourismX Teaching and Project Team

This team has gone above and beyond to develop high quality and engaging blended learning materials, experiences and opportunities for students, both within UQ and to the broader public. The team developed a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) which has attracted more than 25,000 enrolments from over 200 countries. The MOOC was a collaborative effort with a large team who worked closely with government and industry partners from the tourism sector in Queensland.

• Ms Syma Ahmed
• Dr Pierre Benckendorff
• Ms Catherine Bennett
• Professor Sara Dolnicar
• Mr Ruiqi Deng
• Dr Sally Driml
• Dr Sheranne Fairley
• Ms Carrie Finn
• Ms Laura Foley
• Dr Karen Hughes
• Dr Judith Mair
• Mr Matthew Petersen
• Professor Brent Ritchie
• Dr Richard Robinson
• Dr Lisa Ruhanen
• Dr David Solnet
• Dr Gabby Walters

UQ ChangeMakers Podcast Team

In 2018, market research showed that key audiences for OMC's ChangeMakers publication - industry, government and partners - were increasingly subscribing to podcasts for feature content. To better promote UQ's research, student and alumni activities in a channel this audience was already using, OMC launched its first foray into audio content with 'UQ ChangeMakers', a 12-episode podcast that interviews influential members of the UQ community. It has built a significant audience - more than 5350 listens - and also boosted digital article reach (72.48% increase in article views on previous year), thus improving external engagement and raising UQ's profile. The series also had some unexpectedly profound impact - for example, this feedback about an interview with UQ academic and journalist Peter Greste from a woman whose father is in prison in Egypt: "Your comment in the podcast interview on hope really impacted him, and it has reduced his stress centred around his want to return home."

• Mr Michael Jones
• Ms Belinda McDougall
• Ms Katie Rowney
• Ms Rachel Westbury

UQ Umbrella Research and Consulting Services Agreement

In 2018, the Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI) embarked on an innovation drive to 'revolutionise' contracting processes. With a large majority of external funding from industry, SMI needed an agile and efficient partnership pathway. What emerged was a suite of three documents including a 'Letter of Intent', a flagship Umbrella Agreement - for Research and Consultancy Services, and a Research Consortium Agreement. The suite's innovation success is a result of environment - agile, rapid contracting required to win industry funding; people - a united purposeful team and; the concept - a standard suite including a flagship umbrella agreement for research and/or consultancy activities.

• Ms Jocelyn Aboud
• Ms Danielle Barry
• Ms Rebecca Edmund
• Mr Robin Evans
• Mr Stephen Fleming
• Ms Melissa Glendenning
• Dr Trish Murray
• Ms Sabine Sand
• Ms Connie Seeto
• Ms Cristy Sun
• Mr Michael Wood

Mr Scott Tucker, Faculty of Business, Economics and Law

As Facilities and Operations Manager in the BEL Faculty, Scott Tucker fosters a culture of collaboration and communication benefiting all organisational units within the Faculty. He engages positively and collegially across key stakeholders to ensure critical buy-in to a range of initiatives designed to address issues with infrastructure, space and resourcing. In doing so he has delivered exemplary service to the UQ and wider community. The leadership he provided in responding to a fire that damaged the Chamberlain Building in July 2018 was outstanding, meaning that there was no disruption to teaching, rapid rectification of repairs and highly positive feedback from all stakeholders.

Office of Sponsored Research - Fellowships Team

The Fellowships and Awards team works closely with our research community to enhance the competitiveness of UQ's research Fellowship applications and nominations for major prizes and awards. The team is dedicated to Fellowships and 'people support' awards, with specialist skills in Fellowships strategy, writing and editing. They are deeply invested in giving the University's Fellowship applicants the best possible chance of success. UQ is renowned for winning national competitive Fellowships and awards. The Fellowships and Awards team is tireless in their support of UQ researchers.

• Ms Veronica Brancatini
• Ms Deborah Brian
• Dr Jodi Clyde-Smith
• Dr John Gunders
• Dr Richard Kim
• Ms Cristina Risco
• Ms Nicole Thompson
• Dr Liang Zhao

 

Ms Christina Balmori, Faculty of Medicine

Christina has shown exceptional service in coordinating the project to replace the air conditioning for the entire Public Health Building at Herston. She has worked extremely diligently to deliver this time sensitive project to schedule. She has shown exceptional skills in managing the needs of all shareholders to deliver a solution that sets a new standard of quality for the staff and students who utilise the building. She has embraced the challenges of the project and delivered an excellent outcome with impressive client satisfaction levels.

Ms Emma Earl, Institute for Social Science Research

Emma has provided outstanding support for the Institute for Social Science Research’s (ISSR) commitment to translate our research into policy and practice solutions, by facilitating the successful procurement and execution of over thirty research and evaluation opportunities. Her outstanding work has helped ISSR to attract significant research income from industry, in keeping with UQ's values that assert the importance of moving beyond excellence in research to positively impact end users. Emma's work has served to enhance the profile of ISSR as a social solution-focused institute and of UQ by building strategic partnerships across a range of entities.

Mr Paul Kilah, Property and Facilities

As a Property and Facilities (P&F) Client Facility Coordinator, Paul provides exceptional customer focused maintenance support to the School of Agriculture and Food Sciences at Gatton. Paul goes above and beyond to ensure school clients are well looked after. He ensures proactive communication is maintained and always follows up after completion of works to seek feedback. His attention to detail and ability to think outside the box to find creative solutions saves time and money for the School. By keeping abreast of the School's maintenance needs and understanding their priorities, he proactively finds cost efficiencies by linking complementary maintenance projects. Paul is an asset to both the P&F team and the School.

Ms Erinn Osmond, School of Mathematics and Physics

Erinn has provided sustained, outstanding service to staff and students in the School of Mathematics and Physics, as well as the wider University community. She played a significant role supporting the School through two complex and demanding decanting processes. The impact of these disruptions has been enormous for our academic and student cohorts and Erinn’s unwavering commitment to excellence and service to the academic endeavour has been essential to business continuity for the School during this period. Her calm manner, enthusiasm, empathy for people’s needs and wishes and her emphasis on transparency and accountability have been key to her winning the respect of clients and other parties alike.

Ms Gail Smith, Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology

Gail Smith has been at UQ for over 23 years, 21 of those with the Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology. Gail is in charge of singlehandedly administering all scholarships and prizes for the Faculty. She liaises with industry partners and individual philanthropic donors, as well as academic and professional staff across the Faculty and University to administer awards to deserving student recipients. Her high level of professionalism, in-depth knowledge and consistent care and consideration in relationships with students, colleagues and donors contribute to an outstanding, seamless and successful scholarships and prizes service within the Faculty.

Glasshouse Services Team

The Glasshouse services team is a small team that looks after three hectares of plant research space and fourteen glasshouses over two sites. Daniel and Jodie manufactured and delivered ninety cubic metres of growing media throughout the University of Queensland St Lucia campus and Long Pocket in 2018. Their efforts have supported 10 schools, institutes and centres and 46 research groups. The work that they do is both physically and mentally demanding, providing advice on plant growth to pest and disease control, and maintaining compliance with legislative requirements for Office of the Gene Technologies Regulator and Quarantine.

• Mr Daniel Schwartz
• Ms Jodie Smith

P&F Gatton Maintenance Team

Over the last few years, the Asset Services section within the Property and Facilities Division has been undertaking a framework review to align its maintenance services to best practice international standards. This review has led to significant changes, which included establishing a precinct, based service delivery model, developing standard multi-discipline roles, establishing a lead contractor model and developing staff capability. The newly formed Gatton maintenance team, established early in 2018, began work on enhancing customer service, client relationships and client communication. In a matter of a few months, the change in service performance and client satisfaction has been extraordinary. The Gatton maintenance team has embraced the new framework and have led the way in delivering a best practice maintenance service that has supported the teaching and research activities at the Gatton campus.

• Mr Steve Barakin
• Mr Paul Errington
• Mr Peter Greenwood
• Mr Paul Kilah
• Mr Scott Lennon
• Mr Mark Luther
• Mr Matthew Schneider
• Mr Robert White

QCGC Research

In 2018, UQ's Queensland Centre for Gynaecological Cancer Research (QCGC) published one of the New England Journal of Medicine's most notable articles, in which it reported that women with cervical cancer are better off receiving open rather than laparoscopic surgery. QCGC's mission is to develop and research the best standard of care for women experiencing gynaecological cancer. QCGC Research focuses on conducting surgical clinical trials in the field of gynaecological cancer but also performing ground-breaking work outside the conventional clinical trials framework. By conducting high quality research and influencing clinical practice standards, they are servicing UQ and its community in pursuit of excellence.

• Ms Vanessa Behan
• Ms Emma Capaldi
• Ms Trudi Cattley
• Ms Lisa Harrold
• Ms Kerry Millgate
• Ms Danielle Mills
• Professor Andreas Obermair
• Professor David Paterson
• Ms Vanessa Taylor

Teaching Awards Recognition Team

UQ has exceptional success with national and international teaching and learning awards. Since 1997, UQ has won more awards than any other Australian university. While this success is testament to the exceptional teachers who make up the UQ teaching staff, it also recognises the dedicated professionalism of the team supporting national and international recognition of teaching excellence at UQ. Since 2015, support for awards applicants has been transformed from ad hoc support into a team consisting of ITaLI academic and professional staff working with colleagues from across UQ to build the reputation of teaching at UQ.

• Dr Deanne Gannaway
• Mr Dom McGrath
• Associate Professor Peter Newcombe
• Ms Stef Ossowski
• Ms Michelle Quinn
• Professor Susan Rowland

Ms Christina Balmori, Faculty of Medicine

Christina Balmori has shown exceptional service in coordinating the project to replace the air conditioning for the entire Public Health Building at Herston. She has worked extremely diligently to deliver this time sensitive project to schedule. She has shown exceptional skills in managing the needs of all shareholders to deliver a solution that sets a new standard of quality for the staff and students who utilise the building. She has embraced the challenges of the project and delivered an excellent outcome with impressive client satisfaction levels.

Ms Trisha Barbour, UQ Business School

Trisha has shown long standing dedication and service to the Business School. She shows humility in the work she does and brings out the best in her staff. Trisha is self-managing with members of the School's leadership team providing strategic guidance, but it is Trisha who leads, manages and executes. Output is demonstrated through the successful accreditation, reaccreditation and rankings. Despite many years of dedicated service Trisha continues to bring new ideas to the role such as the Student Committees, and Student Town Hall. Through her approach to her work Trisha enriches the School.

Ms Renee Bowyer-Bower, Human Resources Services

Managing HR Transformation Project, in particular HR's CRM implementation and ongoing improvement. Expertly managing change upon change within HR. Exceptional business partner to the CRM team, enabling effective use of technology resources. Driving service improvement.

Ms Cheryl Byrnes, School of Psychology

Cheryl Byrnes has worked for The University of Queensland for 39 years. She has worked for 3 Faculty Executive Deans, as well as Vice-Chancellors, Chancellors and countless other University leaders. Cheryl formally retired from her role as Executive Assistant to the Executive Dean (Health and Behavioural Sciences) towards the end of 2018. She was officially retired for 7 business days before answering the call to return to the Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences in a casual capacity and then as the Acting Facilities and Operations Officer for the School of Psychology. The knowledge, energy, enthusiasm and dedication Cheryl brings to every role she holds in unparalleled. She is an indispensable member of every team she joins and often goes above and beyond the job description to deliver.

Ms Margaret Cowan, School of Economics

This year the School of Economics celebrated 50 years of outstanding and significant service by Margaret Cowan. Over all these years, Margaret has continuously delivered excellent, reliable and professional service to students, staff and the wider community. Her excellent and professional service has improved the experience of not only our casual, administrative and academic staff but also importantly our visitors to the School. From academic staff from other local universities to Nobel Prize Winners, Margaret makes sure the individual needs of our visitors are attended as best as we can. Her outstanding service has supported and enhanced the reputation of UQ around the world. Within the school, we all know that Margaret is always there when you need her. Thank you Margaret.

Ms Caron Crossan, UQ Business School

Nomination 1:

Caron Crossan has for many years been an anchor of stability to the professional staff team. She has managed her team well and put in place systems, and processes focused on servicing the customer. This year, Caron has volunteered to assist with projects such as the Mentoring initiative, Induction program, and design of a staff development policy. In all of these projects there has been improved outcomes for stakeholders.

Nomination 2:

Universities have multiple and very sophisticated stakeholders, each needing appropriate attention, influence and action to drive impact. Caron has been able to build a University-wide network and has a deep understanding of student, academic, leadership and community needs. She harnesses and mobilises teams and processes to improve experiences, innovate and transform. Caron has for many years been an anchor of stability to the professional staff, leading a high performing team that documents and review processes (continuous improvement) and innovates to create distinctive experiences. She has managed her team well and put in place systems and processes focused on servicing the customer. Caron has volunteered to assist with the Mentoring initiative, Induction program, design of a staff development policy, and secretariat for the new GMD governance committees and the UQBS Lifelong Achiever Strategy. In all areas, Caron has shaped strategies and improved outcomes for all stakeholders.

Dr Alan Davidson, TC Beirne School of Law

Dr Alan Davidson has made a significant contribution to building the professional standing and reputation of the UQ community by his involvement with the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL). He has been a delegate at UNCITRAL for its E-Commerce Working Group and was appointed to its Panel of Experts, since 2011. As a Director of UNCCA (UNCITRAL National Coordination Committee Australia) he has arranged for more than 50 law students to attend from Australia wide, 22 from UQ. More recently he has successfully obtained grants to contribute to UQ student's expenses. He devised and manages the scheme that sends students to the UN, to increase awareness of UNCITRAL and to provide students with the unique opportunity in New York and Vienna.

Ms Georgina Duncan, UQ Business School

Georgina Duncan models the UQ values and brings others on the journey through her influence and leadership style. She is adaptable and a highly respected member of the professional staff team.

Ms Emma Earl, Institute for Social Science Research

During 2018, Emma Earl has once again provided outstanding support for ISSR's commitment to translate our research into policy and practice solutions, by facilitating the successful procurement and execution of over thirty research and evaluation opportunities. The exceptional quality and quantity of her work have helped build our partnerships with industry, government agencies and not-for-profit organisations, thus enabling ISSR researchers to apply their specific skills and experience to address significant social problems in immediate and practical ways. In this way, her outstanding work has helped ISSR to attract significant research income from industry, in keeping with UQ's values that assert the importance of moving beyond excellence in research to positively impact end users. Emma's work has served to enhance the profile of ISSR as a social solution-focussed Institute and of UQ by building strategic partnerships across a range of entities.

Mr Gary Fitzgerald, School of Veterinary Science

Nomination 1:

Gary is a dedicated, empathetic and inspirational staff member who leads and mentors a diverse team of over forty veterinary nurses and technicians in a 24/7 operation/business. Gary is renown for leading by example through being a highly skilled and talented veterinary technician while being proactive in the mentoring and development of nurses, including arranging intensive practical workshops and lectures for industry. Gary is also instrumental in improving the culture of nurses, organising events, activities in celebrating events such as Vet Nurse Day (VNCA). Gary strives for excellence and "that will do" is not in his vocabulary.

Nomination 2:

Gary is an inspirational individual who leads and mentors an extensive team of veterinary nurses and technicians. Gary leads by example by not only being highly skilled but is very proactive in the mentoring and development of nurses, including arranging intensive practical workshops and lectures for industry. Gary is also instrumental in improving the culture of nurses, organising events, activities in celebrating events such as Vet Nurse Day (VNCA). Gary strives for excellence and "that will do" is not in his vocabulary. Gary is positive and always willing to help wherever he can.

Mr Christian Forster, Faculty of Science

The Science Workshops primary role is to support undergraduate teaching and postgraduate research activities within the Faculty of Science. The same highly specialised services and facilities are also provided to the numerous collaborative, multi-institutional and world class research groups and Centres of Excellence embedded both within and outside the Faculty. Christian Forster has been at the forefront of sourcing, acquiring and implementing new leading edge technologies within the Faculty of Science's Workshops. The three most innovative are CNC/CADCAM Milling Machines and Live Tooling Lathes, customised, R&D orientated 3D Printing and Laser Cutting & Engraving.

Ms Michelle Goward, UQ Business School

Michelle (Shelley) Goward is a proud member and advocate of the School. She believes in and shows commitment to the School's vision and works exceptionally hard to provide support in achieving these goals.

Ms Samantha Kempster, School of Veterinary Science

Samantha exemplifies UQ's mission to achieve excellence in service. Her role encompasses managing the Clinical Studies Centre, its community engagement programs, animal colonies, staff, the Bachelor of Veterinary Science fourth year Clinical Practical Work Rotation, the Student Clinical Skills Hub, and is an instructor in multiple School of Veterinary Science courses. Samantha delivers globally gold standard, ethical use and clinical care for our teaching and research animals. She has developed extensive community engagement networks, highlighted by; desexing programs, an adopt-a-pet and a greyhound rehoming program. She ensures the highest quality training and mentoring for her staff, creating professional development pathways in a complex environment.

Mr Paul Kilah, Property and Facilities

As a Property and Facilities (P&F) Client Facility Coordinator, Paul Kilah provides exceptional customer focussed maintenance support to the School of Agriculture and Food Sciences at Gatton. Paul goes above and beyond to ensure school clients are well looked after, he ensures proactive communication is maintained and always follows up after completion of works to seek feedback. His attention to detail and ability to think outside the box to find creative solutions saves time and money for the School. By keeping abreast of the School's maintenance needs and understanding their priorities, he proactively finds cost efficiencies by linking complementary maintenance projects. Paul is an asset to both the P&F team and the School.

Ms Marja Knuuttila, School of Political Science and International Studies

Marja Knuuttila commenced in the School of Political Science and International Studies in March 2013. Over the past six years she has applied herself with passion and diligence to improving every area she has worked in. This began in her initial role in reception and front office duties and has continued through HDR administration and into her current role managing postgraduate coursework applications, and providing administrative support for the School's online learning resources. We have often observed and commented on "Cyclone Marja", which is the burst of activity that ensues whenever she takes over a new area of responsibility. This involves a complete review and usually a well thought out reorganisation of procedures, and processes in the new area. The great joy of a staff member like Marja is that she can be trusted to apply her own creative and independent thinking to any task, and that she will achieve an improved practice that will have great outcomes for the School.

Ms Helen Lambe, UQ Business School

Helen Lambe consistently provides outstanding and exceptional quality of service to UQ stakeholders and contributes to the broader UQ community through active service. Helen's contributions go beyond what is expected of in her role as Executive Coordinator. Helen is an ambassador for the University modelling the UQ values. Helen is an asset to the University. In her role as Executive Coordinator Helen is task oriented, very organised and achieves real outcomes each and every day. Once Helen is given a job she takes the initiative and completes the task to a very high standard, often improving the process and documenting for future reference.

Dr Luke Leung, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences

Dr Luke Leung has worked tirelessly for many years at The University of Queensland. In this time he has taught many hundreds of undergraduate and post-graduate students. He strives to instill real life learning to his students rather than just rote learning from a text book. The type of learning that has many times see his students achieve high levels of achievement in science and in the work place.

Dr Brigid McKenna, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences

Dr Brigid McKenna is Senior Scientific and Technical Officer in the School of Agriculture and Food Sciences. In addition to performing her regular duties at the highest level, she finds innovative approaches for enhancing student engagement and performance with learning materials. As course delivery becomes increasingly flexible and blended learning models become the norm, there is an increasing need to understand how different students access and utilise different forms of learning materials, with this driving student behaviour and engagement. The work of Dr McKenna is providing an evidence-based approach for enhancing student learning whilst increasing student flexibility.

Ms Karen Morgan, UQ Business School

Despite significant organisational change with the loss of the HDR team in the School, Karen Morgan maintains professionalism and shows commitment to her work. She is a key part of the School's network for research administration and provides customers with consistently high service. The level of corporate knowledge held by Karen is invaluable.

Associate Professor Peter Murray, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences

Associate Professor Peter Murray is one of those exceptional academics who can change the lives of the students lucky enough to work with him. His extensive knowledge and high standards of teaching are impressive enough but he also motivates and conveys his own enthusiasm for the work to his students. He strives to instill real life learning to his students rather than just rote learning from a text book.

Ms Erinn Osmond, School of Mathematics and Physics

Ms Erinn Osmond has provided sustained, outstanding service to staff and students in the School of Mathematics and Physics, as well as the wider University community. As the School’s Facilities Officer, she has played a significant role in 2018 and 2019 supporting the School through two complex and demanding decanting processes. The impact of these disruptions has been enormous for our academic and student cohorts and Erinn’s unwavering commitment to excellence and service to the academic endeavour has been essential to business continuity for the School during this period. She was been masterful in liaising among the School, the Faculty of Science and Central Property & Facilities, always acting with the University’s best interests at heart. Erinn went above and beyond to proactively identify and resolve logistical planning issues for the School during the decanting process and maintained a high standard of communication throughout the process. Her calm manner, enthusiasm, empathy for people’s needs and wishes and her emphasis on transparency and accountability have been key to her winning the respect of clients and other parties alike.

Ms Maria Parnell, TC Beirne School of Law

Maria Parnell has shown exceptional service in her managerial role during a time of great change and renewal for the School of Law. In addition to all her usual responsibilities as administrative manager of the School, Maria played a central role in the planning for and implementation of the refurbishment of the Forgan Smith Building. This included managing the temporary relocation of the School to other buildings while maintaining the quality of the staff and student experience. She showed exemplary attention to detail and outstanding project management in working with architects and builders. She then managed the move back into the refurbished premises, all the time maintaining a high level of cooperation from staff and doing much to improve the school's morale and positive culture.

Ms Anne-Marie Paroz, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology

Anne-Marie is the AIBN's Customer Service Assistant and is the first point of contact for staff, students and visitors Her reputation for efficient and friendly service reaches far beyond the boundaries of AIBN. She is an invaluable member of the AIBN community, and her 'One UQ' approach to her work ensures both the Institute and by extension, The University of Queensland, is known for excellent customer service and responsiveness. She is willing to go the extra mile doing whatever it takes to meet deadlines and complete initiatives. She is a creative, out-of-the-box thinker, with a willingness to learn and adapt to improve efficiencies. The level of efficiency and professionalism Anne-Marie brings to her role gives both academic and professional staff confidence that any requests will be completed to the highest standard. Every person in AIBN knows and respects Anne-Marie. She's an asset and credit to UQ.

Dr Suja Pillai, School of Biomedical Sciences

Nomination 1:

When it comes to going above and beyond in providing medical students an integrative experience in learning, Dr Suja Pallai excels. Her initiative is simply bettering, not only the knowledge that students walk away with to make them better doctors, but providing a sense that learning is a joyful venture and that we are all in this together. It's amazing what an atmosphere of openness, acceptance, mutual respect and laughter can create; especially seen in the hundreds of students that are walking away with an integrative knowledge of pathology and a positive learning experience that they will never forget. Dr Suja's contribution...well, this is beyond words, for each of us that has been influenced by her teaching, will go on to affect the world in a positive way, and there is no way to quantify the expansive power of inspired students going forward in the world and passing on that same spirit of collaboration.

Nomination 2:

Dr Suja Pillai is an outstanding educator in Pathology and the high standard of her service in teaching has inspired many who are privileged to learn under her. For this she rightly deserves acknowledgement for her excellence.

Mr Edward Qualischefski, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences

For numerous years, Mr Qualischefski has constantly provided exceptional and outstanding service to UQ staff and students, exceeding the expected requirements of his role as Principal Technical Officer (Animal Science). Staff and students can approach Mr Qualischefski knowing he is able to provide unprecedented support, guidance and assistance in any and all available capacities. His experience, knowledge and contact network within UQ highlight his commitment to ensuring staff and students are successful in their teaching, learning and research endeavours. The willingness and determination of Mr Qualischefski to go the extra mile without hesitation are a testament to his invaluable character.

Ms Linda Schumacher, Faculty of Science

Ms Linda Schumacher has made a sustained contribution to UQ's excellence for over 25 years, much of that time spent in the School of Mathematics and Physics. Her finance expertise, her drive, her understanding for the importance of the university's core business, and her willingness to empower staff to make informed financial decisions related to their research, teaching and engagement decisions have been critical to our ability to deliver strong teaching and research outcomes. Her mentorship and leadership has been crucial to the career success of a number of finance staff across the University.

Ms Gail Smith, Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology

Gail Smith has been at UQ for over 23 years, 21 of those with the Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology. Gail is in charge of singlehandedly administering all scholarships and prizes for the Faculty. She liaises with industry partners and individual philanthropic donors, as well as academic and professional staff across the Faculty and University to administer awards to deserving student recipients. Her high-level of professionalism, in-depth knowledge and consistent care and consideration in relationships with students, colleagues and donors contribute to an outstanding, seamless and successful scholarships and prizes service within the Faculty.

Ms Karen Teitzel, UQ Business School

Karen works to build relationships with Faculty and the broader UQ community in order to realise the needs of the School. She upholds the UQ values and despite working within a challenging environment brings creativity, professionalism and optimism to her work. Karen uses her high level influencing skills to achieve the best outcome for the School.

Mr Scott Tucker, Faculty of Business, Economics and Law

As Facilities and Operations Manager in the BEL Faculty, Scott Tucker fosters a culture of collaboration and communication benefiting all organisational units within the Faculty. He engages positively and collegially across key stakeholders to ensure critical buy-in to a range of initiatives designed to address issues with infrastructure, space and resourcing. In doing so he has delivered exemplary service to the UQ and wider community. The leadership he provided in responding to a fire that damaged the Chamberlain Building in July 2018 was outstanding, meaning that there was no disruption to teaching, rapid rectification of repairs and highly positive feedback from all stakeholders.

Ms Chantel Veldhoen, Faculty of Science

In a time of challenge and rapid change in higher education, Chantel Veldhoen has made an extraordinary contribution to the Faculty of Science. She has improved the organisation and professionalism of both our relevant committees and governance support, and driven innovation in several areas of faculty work. As Governance Support Coordinator, Chantel provides timely, comprehensive, expert advice. Chantel knows everything: every rule, every change and every development in university policy. Her work goes beyond coordination of support; she gives academic and professional staff the confidence to innovate and to improve our offerings in a complex and challenging environment.

Veterinary Accreditation Team

The veterinary accreditation team successfully managed a very complex global accreditation process on behalf of the School of Veterinary Science. Preparations began 12 months prior to the accreditation site visit in September 2018, and required a enormous commitment from the team members. The strategy was for each element of the visit to be consistent with the school's vision for excellence and of strong governance and oversight across its activities.Attaining global accreditation is strongly aligned with the UQ Strategic Plan for global reputation, stakeholder confidence and market positioning.

• Ms Kathy Bachmann
• Dr Anne Beasley
• Associate Professor Rowland Cobbold
• Dr Anne Covill
• Mr Weston Davis
• Professor Jonathan Hill
• Professor Malcolm Jones
• Professor Jenny Seddon
• Ms Keira Sharman
• Ms Mariki Visser

Professor Helen Ross, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences

Professor Ross has been a prominent driver of equity and diversity in Science and previous faculties since the early 2000's. She chaired the Gatton campus Equity and Diversity Committee for eight years, 2005-2012, and founded and chairs the School of Agriculture and Food Sciences (SAFS) Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee. As an elected member of Academic Board since about 2009, she has spoken up consistently for equity and diversity issues including leading a debate. She is a champion of indigenous recognition and inclusion, gaining funding for two Aboriginal collaborators in research, hiring Aboriginal guest lecturers and organising SAFS first Aboriginal adjunct appointment.

Disability Inclusion Group

Formed in 2017, UQ's Disability Inclusion Group (DIG) provides outstanding leadership and advocacy for students/staff with disability. The Group has delivered numerous programs and actions to dismantle physical, technological and cultural barriers impacting students and staff with disability, to enable full access to UQ life. The DIG is a unique operating model within Higher Education, in that it brings stakeholders, staff and students with disability together in a cohesive way, to champion and progress disability inclusion outcomes. The Disability Action Plan developed by DIG members in 2018 is considered 'industry leading', and is receiving considerable external interest. The DIG works across a range of area in support of inclusion, including law, academia, information technology, student and staff support, governance, property and facilities and library services.

• Ms Tarriaki Duncan
• Ms Kris Fraser
• Dr Paul Harpur
• Ms Louise Hope
• Ms Tania Kapp
• Associate Professor Rob Pensalfini
• Mr Rowan Salt
• Ms Pam Schindler
• Mr Paul Sheeran
• Mr Tim Sweeney
• Ms Clare Tarlington
• Ms Jordan Tredinnick

UQ Reconciliation Action Plan 

The University's Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) encompasses all people in the working group, steering committee and the UQ community who have contributed to the development, launch and implementation of the RAP. The RAP builds on the extensive work undertaken to support and encourage the celebration of diverse cultures and knowledge, and recognises the significant contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have brought and continue to bring to UQ. It builds a framework that enables UQ to establish and strengthen respectful relationships and opportunities between Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and non-indigenous people.

 

Professor Christine Beveridge, School of Biological Sciences

Professor Beveridge has worked passionately and consistently for the last three years to both shine a light on and actively address equity, diversity and inclusion matters at both a school and faculty level. She proposed the establishment of the BIOL Equity Committee in August 2016, with the drive and commitment to enact real change. The Faculty of Science Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee was subsequently formed in April 2017, in part due to Christine's example and persistence in identifying key areas where organisational change was needed. Christine now Chairs the Faculty Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee.

Dr Paul Harpur, TC Beirne School of Law

Dr Harpur has been championing the rights of persons with disabilities from the age of 14, when a train accident caused him to become blind. The problems he had in accessing print textbooks inspired a research and advocacy agenda that has resulted in a substantial body of scholarship in Australia and internationally, and a drive to transform how UQ provides access to its students and community. His work has led to the formation of a UQ-wide body monitoring and coordinating disability inclusion, which he now chairs, and progress in how various other groups across the University manage disability digital inclusion.

Vet School Diversity Team

The Vet School Diversity team champions diversity and inclusion through innovative teaching, research and service activities. The team has developed unique teaching initiatives related to cultural awareness for students and colleagues alike. The team has demonstrated leadership and commitment by raising the profile of international students, identifying concerns of international students and formulating strategies to address these issues. Through a variety of activities, the team has fostered stronger engagement between international and domestic students and a sense of belonging for staff and students within the School community. The team also promotes incorporation of cultural awareness into the School's international student recruitment strategies.

• Associate Professor Joerg Henning
• Dr Daniel Schull

Ms Nell Angus, Office of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Engagement)

In December 2018, Nell Angus delivered UQ's first ever Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) - on time and in budget. This important document aligns with the University's mission of creating change that positively influences society by engaging in the pursuit of excellence through the creation, preservation, transfer and application of knowledge: the RAP ensures that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges become an integral component. Nell worked very effectively with the RAP Steering Committee and Working Party to achieve this outcome, canvassing a wide variety of opinions and shared experiences to make the process as inclusive, seamless and all-embracing as possible.

Professor Christine Beveridge, School of Biological Sciences

Professor Beveridge has worked passionately and consistently for the last 3 years to both shine a light on and actively address equity, diversity and inclusion matters at both a school and faculty level. She proposed the establishment of the BIOL Equity Committee in August 2016, with the drive and commitment to enact real change. The Faculty of Science EDI Committee was subsequently formed in April 2017, in part due to Christine's example and persistence in identifying key areas where organisational change was needed. Christine now Chairs the Faculty EDI Committee, despite having stepped down from her role as ADR and Deputy Dean in order to take up her Laureate Fellowship.

Dr John Bingley, Faculty of Medicine

Dr Bingley is quite simply the closest that one can get to a living saint. The compassion and kindness he shows for people from all walks of life is frankly astounding and seemingly limitless. No matter how difficult or intractable, he approaches every clinical situation with a gentle and open mind. Dr Bingley is a wonderful role model. I can't help but notice his ability to compel those around him to be better - to be more empathetic, more courageous, and more humble. This is invaluable to witness in the formative years as a medical student - that even when we feel powerless and often useless, we can be influential by make a conscious decision about our actions. Dr Bingley is also an outstanding teacher - the way that he breaks down topics, gives lucid explanations, but then brings this full circle by grounding this in the patient's interests and personal wishes.

Dr Paul Harpur, TC Beirne School of Law

Dr Harpur has been championing the rights of persons with disabilities from the age of 14, when a train accident caused him to become blind. The problems he had in accessing print textbooks inspired a research and advocacy agenda that has resulted in a substantial body of scholarship in Australia and internationally, and a drive to transform how UQ provides access to its students and community. His work has led to the formation of a UQ-wide body monitoring and coordinating disability inclusion, which he now chairs, and progress in how various other groups across the university manage disability digital inclusion.

Professor Helen Ross, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences

Professor Ross has been a prominent driver of equity and diversity in Science and previous faculty NRAVS since the early 2000's. She chaired the Gatton campus Equity and Diversity Committee for eight years, 2005-2012, and founded and chairs the SAFS Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee. As an elected member of Academic Board since about 2009, she has spoken up consistently for equity and diversity issues including leading a debate. She is a champion of indigenous recognition and inclusion, gaining funding for two Aboriginal collaborators in research, hiring Aboriginal guest lecturers and organising SAFS first Aboriginal adjunct appointment.

Ms Jordan Tredinnick, Human Resources Services

Nomination 1:

Jordan is excellent at creating and promoting a positive culture of diversity and respect: her activities impact all people at UQ! She actively promotes inclusion through empowering women and all people with diverse backgrounds, including all sexualities and genders as well as people with disabilities. She trains and manages a growing community of staff committed to gender diversity and inclusion: the UQ Ally network. The University's score in the Australian Workplace Equality Index, which measures LGBTI workplace inclusion, increased by 200% since Jordan started at UQ. For gender equity, she worked on the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Self-Assessment Team and developed the UQ Women Create Change campaign. She led the development of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Strategy, Disability Action Plan and Ally Action Plan. These are obvious pillars for sustaining UQ values of mutual respect, diversity, and shared success. Jordan engages with all units to build our capacity for a positive work environment that allows all staff to flourish.

Nomination 2:

Jordan's passion, dedication and phenomenal work ethic have had a tectonic impact on diversity and inclusion strategies and programs at The University of Queensland. Jordan works tirelessly to situate UQ as an inclusive and welcoming community for diverse students and staff, through her engagement on multiple diversity and inclusion committees, advocacy at the national and local level, outstanding project management skills and strategic leadership.Her tireless campaigning to improve accessibility for staff with disability and expertise in LGBTIAQ+ inclusion resulted in some significant outcomes for UQ in 2018; none of which would be possible without Jordan's personal passion and commitment.

AIBE Centre for Gender Equality in the Workplace

Genesis of the AIBE Centre for Gender Equality in the Workplace dates back to November 2015 when AIBE, UQ Business School and the research team identified a need for collaborative and responsive relationships between academia and industry that capture the dynamic and developing discourses surrounding gender equality in Australia. Since inception, the Centre has worked with industry partners (e.g., Australasian Girls School Alliance, Workplace Gender Equality Agency, Australian Gender Equality Council) to collect, analyse and report on gender equality outcomes of Australian girls and women. The Centre's positive contribution to dialogue has been clearly evidenced through extensive and robust media coverage.

• Dr Terrance Fitzsimmons
• Dr Miriam Yates

Disability Inclusion Group

Formed in 2017, UQ's Disability Inclusion Group (DIG) provides outstanding leadership and advocacy for students/staff with disability. The Group has delivered numerous programs and actions to dismantle physical, technological and cultural barriers impacting students and staff with disability, to enable full access to UQ life. The DIG is a unique operating model within Higher Education, in that it brings stakeholders, staff and students with disability together in a cohesive way, to champion and progress disability inclusion outcomes. The Disability Action Plan developed by DIG members in 2018 is considered 'industry leading', and is receiving considerable external interest. The DIG works across a range of area in support of inclusion, including law, academia, information technology, student and staff support, governance, property and facilities and library services.

• Ms Tarriaki Duncan
• Ms Kris Fraser
• Dr Paul Harpur
• Ms Louise Hope
• Ms Tania Kapp
• Associate Professor Rob Pensalfini
• Mr Rowan Salt
• Ms Pam Schindler
• Mr Paul Sheeran
• Mr Tim Sweeney
• Ms Clare Tarlington
• Ms Jordan Tredinnick

UQ Outreach Team

Since 2009, the UQ Outreach Program has worked to inspire high school students to consider university as a pathway for creating a better future for themselves and their families. We partner with schools in the Ipswich and Lockyer Valley regions who have been identified by the QLD government as facing challenges of low socio-economic backgrounds, educational disadvantage and low application rates to university. The core of the program is nurturing student's personal development, resilience, fundamental study skills and understanding of the university system to dispel myths that education is only for the privileged. This is achieved through a range of on-campus and in-school activities delivered by a dedicated group of UQ Student Ambassadors; many of which faced and overcame similar challenges themselves.

• Ms Louise Butler
• Mr Matt Hoskins
• Ms Bri Ives
• Ms Katie Thomson

UQ Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group

The University's Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working Group consisted of representatives from all areas of the University, who gave significant time and contributions outside their substantive roles between 2017 and 2019 to recommend a framework to the RAP Steering Committee. The RAP builds on the extensive work undertaken to support and encourage the celebration of diverse cultures and knowledge, and recognises the significant contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have brought and continue to bring to UQ. It builds a framework that enables UQ to establish and strengthen respectful relationships and opportunities between Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and non-indigenous people.

Vet School Diversity Team

The Vet School Diversity Team championed diversity and inclusion through innovative teaching, research and service activities. The team developed unique teaching initiatives related to cultural awareness for students and colleagues alike. The team's research underpins and informs their teaching. The team has demonstrated leadership and commitment by raising the profile of international students, identifying concerns of international students and formulating strategies to address these issues. Through a variety of activities, the team has fostered stronger engagement between international and domestic students and a sense of belonging for staff and students within the School community. The team also promoted incorporation of cultural awareness into the School's international student recruitment strategies. As a result, the enrolments by international students have increased substantially. Resources developed by the team and positive student feedback highlight the impact of their work.

• Associate Professor Joerg Henning
• Dr Daniel Schull

Wonder of Science Program

The Wonder of Science (WoS) Program at UQ is a STEM outreach initiative hosted by the UQ Graduate School. WoS recruits, trains and mobilises HDR students as Young Science Ambassadors for visits into schools and communities across Queensland. WoS targets middle-school students (year's five to nine) promoting a STEM culture, where students (as well as teachers and parents) are engaged to understand the importance of STEM and possible study and career pathways. In 2018, the Young Science Ambassadors provided Queensland students with ~20,000 hours of face-to-face contact time with a scientist. 70% of ambassadors are UQ HDR students and 70% are female.

• Ms Robyn Bull
• Dr Kaylene Butler
• Dr Natalie McKirdy
• Ms Christina Vearing

Sexual Misconduct Support Unit

Established as a virtual unit in late 2017, the Sexual Misconduct Support Unit has responsibility for the response, support, and prevention activities around sexual assault and sexual misconduct for the UQ community. Its first achievement was the establishment of the First Responder Network, a network of staff across the University ensuring members of the UQ community receive clear and swift action and support when required. Collaboration and stakeholder engagement has been critical to its success in not only supporting survivors but working to ensure long lasting cultural change within our University community.

• Ms Aileen Alexander
• Ms Gael Bateman
• Ms Donna Caughley
• Ms Renee de Simone
• Ms Kim Fletcher
• Mr Sheldon Pace
• Ms Ruby Wallace

 

Dr Fanny Lombard, Institute for Molecular Bioscience

To ensure the risk of hazardous chemicals was kept to a minimum and to protect the health and wellbeing of workers in the area, Fanny coordinated a project to review the method of chemical storage at the Institute for Molecular Bioscience. The project improved the usability of the available space and improved health and safety by limiting exposure to potentially harmful chemicals and facilitating appropriate segregation of chemicals. The success of this project has sparked interest from other organisational units who are now interested in implementing similar systems, potentially leading to a global improvement in chemical safety across UQ.

Smoke-free UQ

The Smoke-free UQ project successfully transitioned UQ to a smoke-free environment across all sites and campuses from 1 July 2018. The project and the creation of a supporting policy reaffirmed UQ's position as a world-leading education and research university that demonstrates best practice in public and individual health. Smoke-free UQ, in partnership with Queensland Health, other universities and TAFEs, supported state-wide efforts to eliminate smoking from all higher education campuses. By creating clear, evidence-based messaging and providing appropriate help and support to those who want to quit, the University achieved significant organisational change and a cleaner and healthier environment for our community.

• Mr Andrew Barling
• Mr Geoffrey Burmester
• Mr Jim Carmichael
• Dr Coral Gartner
• Ms Esther Haskell
• Dr Sheleigh Lawler
• Ms Vicki McNabb
• Mr Garry Tyler

UQ VETS Equine Specialist Hospital

UQ VETS Equine Specialist Hospital has more than 2000 cases admitted per year and on average 15-20 cases are treated daily. These cases undergo veterinary procedures that produce well in excess of 10,000 annual contact events between UQ staff/students and a horse. The level of health and safety concerns in managing these often 500kg+ sick animals is enormous. Considering lethal zoonotic infectious agents are a constant threat, the use of several radiation sources in treatments and the act of safely placing these animals under general anesthesia the safety concerns are myriad. To combat these risks a proactive integrated approach has been taken resulting in a remarkably low occurrence of adverse incidents.

• Associate Professor Ben Ahern
• Dr Francois Bertin
• Dr Natalie Fraser
• Dr Myat Kyaw-Tanner
• Dr Carlos Medina
• Dr Albert Sole
• Dr Allison Stewart
• Dr Alex Young
• Dr Steven Zedler

Dr Fanny Lombard, Institute for Molecular Bioscience

Hazardous chemicals present a number of risks to the health and wellbeing of people in the workplace. Chemical storage is a critical aspect in laboratory safety. Rather than accepting the status quo, Fanny accepted the concerns of the workers in her area and coordinated a project to review the current method of chemical storage at the Institute for Molecular Bioscience. The project resulted in the installation of novel purpose-designed vented chemical storage cabinets. The project improved the usability of the available space and improved health and safety by limiting exposure to potentially harmful chemicals and facilitating appropriate segregation of chemicals. The relatively low-cost of the new cabinets, along with their success in optimising storage space while also improving safety has sparked interest from other organisational units who are now interested in implementing similar systems, potentially leading to a global improvement in chemical safety across The University of Queensland.

Dr Xiaoming Sun, School of Chemical Engineering

Dr Xiaoming Sun focuses on workplace health, safety and wellness (HSW) and works proactively to provide guidance and support in developing consistent work practices. She created operational efficiencies and supported group members to enable them safely and smoothly to achieve their research goals by everyday lab management and actively assisting. She initiated the idea of a lab manual which covers almost all aspects of operations for lab users and lead to complete it, highlighting a culture where safety is the priority. Her actions actively contributing to networks that assist with the provisions of HSW advice has improved the safety culture at school level. She has also facilitated collaboration with other lab managers within the Faculty of EAIT by sharing the resources she has developed. Her approach has led to the achievement of outstanding and is beyond the usual expectations of the post. She is constantly striving to maintain the highest level of performance regarding all HSW issues.

Ms Valentina Urrutia Guada, Health, Safety and Wellness Division

A passionate and professional member of UQ's Health, Safety and Wellness Division, Valentina has led the development, pilot, and evaluation of the LEAD Safety Culture initiative with tremendous energy. Valentina has been instrumental in providing high-quality feedback and advice to improve the safety culture initiative, co-facilitated two weeks' of pilot training sessions, and expertly engaged with six different organisational units to ensure the project's success. Through her dedication, Valentina has contributed to the development of a safety culture toolkit that will be used by Queensland industry and has made a tangible impact on the health, safety and wellness of the University.

Dr Vinu Verghis, School of Public Health

It is said that a good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning. This describes the exceptional contributions of Dr Vinu Verghis. With compassion, dedication, and expertise, Dr Verghis tutors year 1 and 2 medical students and inspires them to become better future physicians. She is very passionate about her work. Her exceptional support and care for her students goes beyond normal expectations of performance. Her teaching style is so engaging and inspiring that many students have decided to pursue combined degrees and certificates within the School of Public Health. She has single-handedly created an exceptional student and staff experience at UQ.

EAIT SAFE and EAIT uRite Development Team

The EAIT SAFE team were responsible for the articulation and delivery of a new and innovative internal software platform (EAIT SAFE) and integration with an existing platform (EAIT uRite) to streamline the induction and training activities associated with laboratories for undergraduates, postgraduates and researchers. The systems enable rapid and effective oversight of training, as well as adding automation of activities such as booking to permit scaling of training. The EAIT SAFE dashboard was developed as an entirely new system, and integrates seamlessly existing systems.

• Mr Martin Bull
• Mr Mike Dibble
• Ms Janelle Scown

High Voltage Electrical Pulse Comminution

The high voltage electrical pulse facility was designed, planned, built and commissioned with the safety of users in mind. The innovative technology is new and has not been implemented in Australia previously. The design of the facility reduces the risk to staff and students by using an earthing cage, e-stop, safety interlocks and access control. The facility will enhance the staff and student experience by providing an innovative and safe facility for research involving high voltage pulse (HVP). The process of safe design, commissioning and certification of high risk plant is the highlight of this project. A highly consultative process was undertaken with all relevant stakeholders, internal and external to UQ.

• Dr Christian Antonio
• Mr Daniel Lay
• Dr Kym Runge
• Professor Frank Shi

LEAD Safety Leadership Project

The LEAD Safety Culture project is a partnership with the Queensland Government for the development, trial and evaluation of a safety culture toolkit to aid Queensland's organisations in improving their safety culture. The key contacts in six organisational units: the Sustainable Minerals Institute, the School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering, the School of Chemical Engineering, Campus Operations at Properties and Facilities, the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work and the School of Historical and Philosophical Inquiry, are implementing this project, demonstrating safety leadership and commitment to enhancing health, safety and wellness of the staff and HDR students.

• Mr Ryan Anderson
• Dr Tristan Casey
• Professor Megan Cassidy-Welch
• Mr Stephen Coombes
• Ms Melissa Glendenning
• Professor Peter Halley
• Dr Michael Heitzmann
• Ms Cara Herington
• Ms Kim Lamb
• Professor Ross McAree
• Professor Helen McCutcheon 
• Mr Adrian McPaul
• Mr Stuart Nicol
• Mr Kevin O'Sullivan
• Professor Neville Plint
• Mr Jonathan Read
• Ms Andrea Steel
• Ms Valentina Urrutia Guada
• Associate Professor James Vaughan

Sexual Misconduct Support Unit

The Sexual Misconduct Support Unit was developed in late 2017 in response to the Human Rights Commission survey and subsequent national report on Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment at Australian Universities. Established as a virtual unit, it has responsibility for the response, support, and prevention activities around sexual assault and sexual misconduct for the UQ Community. Its first achievement was the establishment of the First Responder Network, a network of staff across the University ensuring members of the UQ Community receive clear and swift action and support when required. Collaboration and stakeholder engagement has been critical to its success in not only supporting survivors but working to ensure long last cultural change within our University community.

• Ms Aileen Alexander
• Ms Gael Bateman
• Ms Donna Caughley
• Ms Renee de Simone
• Ms Kim Fletcher
• Mr Sheldon Pace
• Ms Ruby Wallace

Smoke-free UQ

The Smoke-free UQ project successfully transitioned The University of Queensland to a smoke-free environment across all sites and campuses from 1 July 2018. The project and the creation of a supporting policy (ppl 2.30.17 Smoke-free University) reaffirmed UQ's position as a world-leading education and research university that demonstrates best practice in public and individual health. Smoke-free UQ, in partnership with Queensland Health, other universities and TAFEs, supported state-wide efforts to eliminate smoking from all higher education campuses. By creating clear, evidence-based messaging and providing appropriate help and support to those who want to quit, the University achieved significant organisational change and a cleaner and healthier environment for our community.

• Mr Andrew Barling
• Mr Geoffrey Burmester
• Mr Jim Carmichael
• Dr Coral Gartner
• Ms Esther Haskell
• Dr Sheleigh Lawler
• Ms Vicki McNabb
• Mr Garry Tyler

UQ VETS Equine Specialist Hospital

UQ VETS Equine Specialist Hospital is a 24/7 veterinary teaching hospital with 50+ full time staff members. For 48 weeks of the year 120+ bachelor of veterinary science students undertake clinical rotations in a work integrated learning environment that produces 3000+ community facing UQ interactions. Greater than 2000 cases are admitted per year and on average 15-20 cases are treated daily. These cases undergo veterinary procedures that produces well in excess of 10,000 annual contact events between UQ staff / students and a horse. The level of health and safety concerns in managing these often 500kg+ sick animals is enormous. Considering lethal zoonotic infectious agents are a constant threat, the use of several radiation sources in treatments, the act of safely placing these animals under general anesthesia the safety concerns are myriad. To combat these risks a proactive integrated approach has been taken resulting in a remarkably low occurrence of adverse incidents.

• Associate Professor Ben Ahern
• Dr Francois Bertin
• Dr Natalie Fraser
• Dr Myat Kyaw-Tanner
• Dr Carlos Medina
• Dr Albert Sole
• Dr Allison Stewart
• Dr Alex Young
• Dr Steven Zedler

UQ Workers' Compensation Self-insurance Licence Renewal Project

Staff from across UQ were brought together across 2018 to work on the common goal of obtaining UQ's renewed licence for workers compensation. Staff were involved in the planning, preparation and implementation stages of the project and included staff in central divisions and Faculties, Schools and Institutes, and across campuses. The project involved a range of activities where UQ's performance was measured by external regulators/auditors across the areas of our OHS systems, claims management systems and rehabilitation processes. The stand-out factor of this project is that it involved a coordinated approach from many different areas of the university, working to a common aim, with a successful outcome. The outcome has significant impact on providing an efficient, cost effective model for workers¹ compensation for our staff- performance that benefits our people, and compares extremely favourably against other organisations in Queensland and like-universities across Australia.

• Mr Greg Brown
• Mr Marshall Butterworth
• Ms Michele Campbell
• Mr Ross Dixon
• Ms Kris Fraser
• Mr Rod Knights
• Dr Paul Lovelock
• Ms Narelle McCallum
• Mr Michael Phillips
• Mr Chris Pye
• Mr Vincent Rapisarda
• Ms Leanne Ritchie
• Ms Theresa Seru
• Ms Maria Somodevilla Torres
• Dr Cindy Tan
• Ms Anne Tobin
• Ms Jennie Trinder
• Ms Sonya Watson
• Mr Miller Zivkovic

UQ Young Achievers Team

Since 2009, the UQ Young Achievers Program has been supporting the tertiary education aspirations of students faced with financial and educational disadvantages in low socio economic, regional and remote areas of Queensland. The program provides students with mentoring, financial assistance and opportunities for personal growth and leadership development. Through these initiatives the program is designed to overcome a number of challenges including the wellness and mental health of these venerable students. In 2019 a new mental health action plan was implemented for the program which demonstrates the team's ongoing commitment to best practice youth mental health.

• Mr Matt Hoskins
• Ms Cindy Morris
• Ms Eileen Pich
• Ms Monique Pountney
• Ms Kristy Wylie

UQBR Safety Team

When occupational hazards cannot be eliminated or substituted, we all too often rely on lower order controls such as personal protective equipment (PPE). An import piece of PPE within UQ Biological Resources (UQBR) is close fitting, negative pressure face respirators worn by staff to reduce exposure to major urinary protein, MUP1. The safety and compliance team within UQBR have shown continued ongoing commitment to implementing a comprehensive respirator fit testing program for their staff. Their willingness to share their successes and challenges with other organisational units should be recognised.

• Ms Rebecca Bruce
• Ms Katrina Geary

Ms Marni Jacoby, Faculty of Medicine

Marni came into the Faculty at a period in time where the Faculty and its component Schools and organisational units were experiencing significant change. With Marni at the helm, the Faculty has seen a reinvigorated staff culture that naturally led to immediate staff re-engagement. Marni inspires and encourages staff to strive for excellence and, in so doing, has promoted the ability of staff members to take personal ownership of their function. Marni achieves this through her realistic approach resulting in each member of her team realising their individual goals whilst meeting the strategic objectives of the Faculty.

Spinifex Nanocellulose Pilot Plant Team at Long Pocket

This sustainable technology was discovered in the final year of an Australian Research Council Discovery Project in 2012 (DP0877161, 2008-2012). The nominated team includes originators, inventors, two PhD graduates and plant engineers who have cooperated single-mindedly over the last seven years to produce Australia's first and largest nanocellulose production facility, which has now produced hundreds of kilograms of quality-assured product leading to many successful commercial customer trials in concrete, rubber and recycled paper applications. This has all been accomplished with great integrity while remaining respectful and patient during negotiations with Indigenous Commercial Partners (Dugalunji Aboriginal Corporation) and the Queensland Government (Biodiscovery Act).

• Dr Nasim Amiralian
• Dr Celine Chaleat
• Dr Grant Edwards
• Dr Emilie Gauthier
• Mr Alireza Hosseinmardi
• Dr Pratheep Kumar
• Professor Darren Martin
• Mr Benoit Martine
• Professor Paul Memmott
• Mr Liam Pooley

 

Professor Julie Duck, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

As Acting Executive Dean during 2018, Julie provided cohesion in HASS through her delicate balance of drive and collegiality. Julie's approach embodied supportive academic leadership underpinned by exemplary integrity. As substantive Associate Dean (Academic), Julie is pre-eminent in the sphere of teaching and learning, contributing at a sustained level to whole of university initiatives and leading a culture of innovation within HASS, one that remains firmly grounded in the needs of students and responsive to university strategy. Julie continues to inspire and challenge colleagues, constantly looking at ways to create better futures for all staff and students.

Professor Melissa Fitzgerald, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences

Professor Melissa Fitzgerald is passionate about people and science. She leads large collaborative projects and values research outcomes that lead to benefit, in any way that science can be applied. Melissa is strongly committed to training and mentoring the next generation of science leaders, and she looks for creative ways to improve the university experience of undergraduates and postgraduates in science. Melissa is very committed to diversity, and is very has worked diligently to uphold indigenous values in her teaching, and to support international students. Melissa received the Faculty of Science Award for Leadership and Mentoring in 2019.

Ms Kerry Kilner, School of Communication and Arts

Kerry has been director of AustLit since 2002, leading a unique bio-bibliographical database: the only national bibliography of its kind in the world, Australia's longest-running digital humanities project, and the only bibliography of Indigenous writing and story-telling of its kind. In this role, she has driven creative and independent thinking, facilitated cross-cultural and inclusive scholarship across the University, and radically reshaped our understanding of the extent and nature of writing in and about Australia. As director of this unique research infrastructure, Kerry has been at the forefront of digital humanities-driven Australian studies at UQ, in Australia, and internationally.

Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health

For over a decade the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) team have not only managed this national flagship study, but have built a world-leading collaborative research programme. Their work continues to be essential for development of women's health policy and clinical guidelines. The success of the team is evidenced by not just the high quality of outputs, but sustained government commitment, the award of two NHMRC Centres of Research Excellence, and three recent NHMRC project grants that strengthen and add value to ALSWH. A key part of the team's achievement includes a preeminent role in national capacity building for epidemiology and women's health research.

• Dr Hsiu-Wen Chan
• Ms Christine Coleman
• Professor Annette Dobson
• Ms Megan Ferguson
• Mr David Fitzgerald
• Ms Leonie Gemmell
• Ms Helen Gray
• Dr Colleen Loos
• Professor Gita Mishra
• Associate Professor Leigh Tooth

Professor Andrew Burton-Jones, UQ Business School

ABJ is the ultimate quiet achiever. He leads by example, so that all around him work harder to emulate his integrity, research excellence and compassion. Andrew's reputation is such that he has been granted rare and privileged access to Queensland Health and the digital health transformation. His reports are valued at the highest levels of Queensland government. His impact as a researcher was recognised this year when he was awarded the field leader in Business, Economics and Management Australia-wide in The Australian. He is highly respected in UQ's HDR community in his leadership role, implementing a vision to optimise the quality and reputation of the program.

Associate Professor Marisa Cordella, School of Languages and Cultures

Since her arrival at the School of Languages and Cultures (SLC) in 2013, Associate Professor Marisa Cordella has taken on several leadership roles including Director of Studies and current Director of Research. Through a strong ethics of care for colleagues and students, her distinctively genuine leadership and mentoring style have strategically advanced and effectively implemented key initiatives that continue to have ripple effects within our school and in the community at large. Within the linguistic and cultural diversity at SLC, specific initiatives led by Marisa have seen profound changes in the school's overall research culture and quality of assessment practices. Marisa exemplifies credibility and integrity in all her interactions, from the mentoring of newly recruited staff and Early Career Researchers to advancing mid to senior-career colleagues in their own leadership of collaborative projects within research clusters.

Professor Julie Duck, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

As Acting Executive Dean during 2018, Julie provided cohesion in HASS through her delicate balance of drive and collegiality. Julie's approach embodied supportive academic leadership underpinned by exemplary integrity. As substantive Associate Dean (Academic), Julie is pre-eminent in the sphere of teaching and learning, contributing at a sustained level to whole of university initiatives and leading a culture of innovation within HASS, one that remains firmly grounded in the needs of students and responsive to university strategy. Julie continues to inspire and challenge colleagues, constantly looking at ways to create better futures for all staff and students.

Associate Professor Diann Eley, Faculty of Medicine

Associate Professor Di Eley has gone above and beyond her role as the director of MD research overseeing the MD-HDR projects. As international students, recent regulation changes had resulted in our ineligibility to pursue a concurrent HDR project part-time while continuing full time MD studies. Professor Eley, in the midst of this challenging and sudden situation, was our main point of contact in reaching out to all bodies (graduate school, FOM, UQ international) and advocated strongly for our expectations and rights as students with strong aspirations. She exhibited strong leadership by taking responsibility in managing an undesirable situation that she did not foresee, actively listening and working with each of us to find a plausible solution, and advocating strongly for our well being and career aspiration. For this, I believe professor Eley deserves a leadership distinction.

Professor Melissa Fitzgerald, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences

Professor Melissa Fitzgerald is passionate about people and science. She leads large collaborative projects and values research outcomes that lead to benefit, in any way that science can be applied. Melissa is strongly committed to training and mentoring the next generation of science leaders, and she looks for creative ways to improve the university experience of undergraduates and postgraduates in Science. Melissa is very committed to diversity, and is very has worked diligently to uphold indigenous values in her teaching, and to support international students. Melissa received the Faculty of Science Award for Leadership and Mentoring in 2019.

Associate Professor Damian Hine, Australian Institute of Business and Economics

Damian is an evolutionary economist focussed on innovations that enhance firm growth and economic development. At the core of Damian's work is the creation, development and uptake of new ideas and technologies and the business model innovation needed to support them. His research employs novel quantitative modelling techniques on large data sets, as well as community level interventions aimed at increasing the innovativeness of businesses, communities and industries. Damian has also been appointed as an Advisor to the World Bank, and as the International Expert Consultant to the Vietnam National Innovation Training Program. Damian recently led a successful bid for UQ to establish the Rural Economies Centre of Excellence. He is currently Acting Director of the Australian Institute for Business and Economics, and Director of the Asia-Pacific Enterprise Initiatives.

Ms Marni Jacoby, Faculty of Medicine

Marni came into the Faculty at a period in time where the Faculty and its component Schools and organisation units were experiencing significant change and viewed themselves as being overwhelmed and fatigued. The Faculty felt itself lacking in comprehensive, stable leadership. From the moment Marni took ownership of the Executive Manager role the Faculty began to achieve and succeed, and most importantly it saw itself as being able to realise its potential. With Marni at the helm, we have seen a reinvigorated staff culture that naturally led to immediate staff re-engagement. Marni inspires and encourages staff to strive for excellence and, in so doing, has promoted the ability of staff members to take personal ownership of their function. Marni achieves this through her realistic approach resulting in each member of her team realising their individual goals whilst meeting the strategic objectives of the Faculty.

Ms Kerry Kilner, School of Communication and Arts

Kerry Kilner has been director of AustLit since 2002, leading a unique bio-bibliographical database: the only national bibliography of its kind in the world, Australia's longest-running digital humanities project, and the only bibliography of Indigenous writing and story-telling of its kind. In this role, she has driven creative and independent thinking, facilitated cross-cultural and inclusive scholarship across the university, and radically reshaped our understanding of the extent and nature of writing in and about Australia. As director of this unique research infrastructure, Kerry has been at the forefront of digital humanities-driven Australian studies at UQ, in Australia, and internationally.

Ms Emma Livingstone, Institute for Molecular Bioscience

As a PhD student, Emma has been a strong and powerful voice for diversity, gender equity and the mental welfare of PhD students in high pressure environments. A clear and logical thinker who can articulate complex ideas across many spheres of influence, Emma is a leader of the future.

Professor Neal Menzies, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences

Professor Neal Menzies is Head, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, and UQ Dean of Agriculture. Since the School's formation from three pre-existing schools in 2011, Neal has displayed exemplary leadership. Despite the complexities of managing a large, cross-campus unit, Neal has helped create a strong, vibrant, cohesive and diverse grouping, now among the largest research training schools in UQ. Neal motivates staff and students to pursue their passions and fosters a culture of enabling innovation. Neal has served as President, Australian Council of Deans of Agriculture, Vice President, International Union of Soil Science, and President, Soil Science Australia.

Ms Helen Morgan, Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research)

Helen exemplifies UQ's values through her constant commitment to excellence and her desire to improve the workplace for those around her. Her focus on continuous improvement has driven her to support initiatives that bring together staff for shared learning experiences, improved the mechanisms UQ uses to collate data for the ERA exercise, provided researchers with high-quality support for the new Engagement and Impact Assessment, and driven continuous improvement for UQ's researchers by guiding the development of new systems such as the Research Data Manager.

Professor Karen Moritz, Faculty of Medicine

Karen Mortiz took over as Director of the CHRC at a time of great turmoil in child health research at UQ. The former Queensland Children's Medical Research Institute had been disbanded and serious mistrust existed between the Faculty and child health researchers. The move to the Centre for Children's Health Research was difficult and a sense of abandonment and disunity existed. Enter Karen Moritz. In her calm and unassuming leadership style, Karen united the group, bringing peace and harmony to CHRC. She now leads a cohesive group of clinical and translational researchers making a mark in the child health space.

Ms Felicity Ray, Human Resources Services

Felicity has been instrumental in building a positive and collaborative culture within the Science HR Professional Services team (PSt) and the wider Science faculty. Felicity's leadership, knowledge, drive, enthusiasm, innovation, and personable skills have fostered an enjoyable and productive working environment seeing the establishment of initiatives that provide excellent service to the Faculty. Notable achievements include transitioning to electronic approvals, establishing multiple workflows, fostering a positive transparent work environment, and providing developmental opportunities for the team. This culture has allowed the Science HR PSt to diversify their capabilities and achieve job satisfaction.

Ms Janine Richards, Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research)

Janine Richards personifies each of capabilities of UQ's Leadership Framework excelling in purposefully leading change; and valuing people and building culture. As Director, Research Analysis, Policy and Operations (RAPO) Janine uses innovative project and communication tools to empower, support and motivate her team. She encourages initiative, challenging the status quo, supporting her people and building on their strengths, helping them to develop. Janine regularly walks to halls making personal contact with members of the RAPO team ensuring they feel valued and respected. Her leadership style makes a significant, positive impact on the culture and job satisfaction of the RAPO team.

Dr Steven Rynne, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences

Steven Rynne's commitment to excellence in leadership is focused strongly around the individualised or personalised development of each students potential. Indeed, Steven thinks and works strategically with each individual person. He fosters learning, inquiry and innovation by taking the time to get to know each student as a 'person', including their particular strengths and weaknesses. Through his scholarly values, and a systematic approach to guidance, Steven also provides meticulous supervision and planning for undertaking the overall research process that includes the effective monitoring and management of the progression of each HDR candidates work on a regular basis, and a demonstrated personal involvement in and commitment to pursuing resources (human or asset-based) in order to assist candidates within a range of research areas.

Dr Sally Staton, Institute for Social Science Research

Dr Sally Staton is an outstanding early career researcher whose work on sleep in early childhood has already demonstrated her capacity as a game-changer. Her research has changed national legislation and impacted policy and practice in Australia's early education and care sector. Her work has reached and influenced international research and public audiences. At less than 3 years post PhD., including a period of maternity leave, she has generated a research income exceeding $2 million, been recognised in national and international research excellence awards, published at the highest level across disciplines of medicine, science psychology and education, and with commercial funding has developed, trialled and delivered a professional development program to support early childhood educators in supporting sleep, rest and relaxation for children in childcare settings. In ISSR she instigated and leads an early career development program and mentors a team of 8 academics and 3 HDRs.

Dr George Tucker, Faculty of Medicine

George has played an extremely proactive leadership role in helping the Faculty Advancement team develop community relationships in support of a locally-driven scholarship campaign in Toowoomba. He has led the way in identifying potential community supporters, scheduling meetings with prominent community stakeholders, crafting and executing outreach and engagement strategies, and continuously driving the project forward. He is also leading the way in philanthropy by making a significant personal gift in support of the scholarship program. George has helped recruit an influential member of the local community to serve as chair of an Advancement committee, and is working very closely with the Advancement team to recruit additional committee members and develop strategies to progress fundraising efforts in a significant and meaningful way.

Dr Kylie Wenham, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences

Kylie's passion for plant pathology and crop science research shines through in her daily work within the School of Agriculture and Food Science's Agronomy team and in her position as an Associate Lecturer. Kylie is a natural leader who contributes greatly to student life at Gatton campus. She openly fosters learning and inquiry in her undergraduate students and influences collaboration and builds strong relationships amongst postgraduate students. Kylie is a shining example of today's skilled, experienced young leaders who will help lead current student's in becoming the researchers of the future.

Professor George Zhao, School of Chemical Engineering

George Zhao is a research leader, being awarded an ARC Laureate Fellow in 2017. In addition to almost 400 scientific papers he has published (h-index of 82 and > 30,000 citation), he has led research teams in Singapore, China and Australia. This has been supported by $37M in research support. Zhao has initiated several international organisations, for e.g. Asia-Pacific Association of Energy Storage & Conversion. He has graduated 27 PhD students and supervised 19 postdoctoral research fellows. Of these 21 have gone on to permanent academic positions in China, Singapore, USA, and Korea.

Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health

For over a decade the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) team have not only managed this national flagship study, but have built a world-leading collaborative research programme. Their work continues to be essential for development of women's health policy and clinical guidelines. The success of the team is evidenced by not just the high quality of outputs, but sustained government commitment, the award of two NHMRC Centres of Research Excellence, and three recent NHMRC project grants that strengthen and add value to ALSWH. A key part of the team's achievement includes a preeminent role in national capacity building for epidemiology and women's health research.

• Dr Hsiu-Wen Chan
• Ms Christine Coleman
• Professor Annette Dobson
• Ms Megan Ferguson
• Mr David Fitzgerald
• Ms Leonie Gemmell
• Ms Helen Gray
• Dr Colleen Loos
• Professor Gita Mishra
• Associate Professor Leigh Tooth

SOE Accreditation Team

The Queensland College of Teachers conducts periodic rigorous accreditation reviews of teacher preparation programs to ensure graduates are eligible for provisional registration. This past academic year, Carmen Mills, Jodie Miller, and Katie Cawte comprised the accreditation team for the UQ School of Education. They undertook the Herculean task of leading program review and revision, data compilation and analysis, and the production of accreditation documentation for two programs: B.Ed. Primary and Honours, and B.Ed. Secondary (multiple programs). Their leadership in working with School of Education staff in this endeavour resulted in achieving accreditation for both programs for the maximum period of five years.

• Dr Katie Cawte
• Dr Jodie Miller
• Dr Carmen Mills

Spinifex Nanocellulose Pilot Plant Team at Long Pocket

This sustainable technology was discovered in the final year of an Australian Research Council Discovery Project in 2012 (DP0877161, 2008-2012). This has all been accomplished with great integrity while remaining respectful and patient during negotiations with Indigenous Commercial Partners (Dugalunji Aboriginal Corporation) and the QLD Govt. (Biodiscovery Act).The nominated team includes originators, inventors, two PhD graduates and plant engineers who have cooperated single-mindedly over the last seven years to produce Australia's first and largest nanocellulose production facility, which has now produced hundreds of kg of quality-assured product leading to many successful commercial customer trials in concrete, rubber and recycled paper applications.

• Dr Nasim Amiralian
• Dr Celine Chaleat
• Dr Grant Edwards
• Dr Emilie Gauthier
• Mr Alireza Hosseinmardi
• Dr Pratheep Kumar
• Professor Darren Martin
• Mr Benoit Martine
• Professor Paul Memmott
• Mr Liam Pooley

UQ Business School Senior Leadership Team

The Senior Leadership Team, formed in February 2018 with the appointment of Professor Julie Cogin as the Dean of the Business School, has worked tirelessly and in a consultative manner to streamline processes, empower professional and academic staff, further improve school culture, while also setting a high standard for performance. The fruits of their labour, in just over a year, are nothing short of impressive and are evidence of leadership of a cohesive and highly functioning team. While there are many positive outcomes to speak of, the positive effect on culture and staff morale in such a short time is most striking.

• Professor Julie Cogin
• Ms Katie Farley
• Mr Declan Hughes
• Associate Professor Lisa Ruhanen
• Professor David Smith
• Professor Martie-Louise Verreynne