Tireless science campaigner in line for medal

Professor Jenny Martin from the Institute for Molecular Bioscience is a finalist for a Pride of Australia Medal in the Inspiration category.

IMB director Professor Brandon Wainwright is seeking public support for Professor Martin, and asking for votes to help her win the People's Choice Award for Queensland.

Across 10 categories, the medals recognise ordinary people who have made Australia a better place.

“Jenny was named a finalist in the awards for her tireless efforts campaigning for gender equity in science in Australia, which have resulted in a number of significant advances,” Professor Wainwright said.

“She has addressed the severe under-representation of women in senior positions in Australia by mentoring young women and encouraging positive stereotypes of women scientists.

”Additionally, her research has contributed new scientific knowledge in biology and crystallography, which she is using to develop novel antibiotics to treat drug-resistant bacteria.”

As a member of the National Health and Medical Research Council Women in Health Sciences, Professor Martin has campaigned for gender equity on peer review panels for funding options and proposed part-time options.

Professor Martin has received numerous awards and is a founding member of the Australian Academy of Science's Science in Australia Gender Equity Forum steering committee.

Vote for Professor Martin to receive a People's Choice Award in the Queensland Inspiration category here.

Voting closes on Sunday.

Media: Bronwyn Adams, IMB Communications, +61 7 3346 2134, 0418 575 247, communications@imb.uq.edu.au