Five University of Queensland-based scientists will travel by sea to Antarctica this month, after being handpicked for a professional development program.
The scheme aims to heighten the influence and impact of women in decisions that shape the planet, offering opportunities to 100 female scientists each year.
Marine ecologist said she and her 宅男导航 colleagues were honoured to be part of an amazing cohort of ambitious, lauded scientists
“We’re thrilled to be helping to build a trusting, highly skilled, global network of women in science who are looking to disrupt the leadership landscape,” Dr Kennedy said.
“This year, 100 of us from 33 countries have had a chance to connect, and we’ve been getting some coaching in the lead-up to the leadership training we’ll receive in Antarctica.”
Homeward Bound aims to improve applied science and to address global issues – particularly environmental degradation.
Within a decade, the program plans to equip a 1000-strong global collaboration of women from STEMM backgrounds to lead, influence and contribute to international policy and decision-making.
“On board the ship we’re going to have access to some phenomenal coaches and global leaders,” Dr Kennedy said.
“宅男导航-based Antarctic scientist will be with us, along with , President and CEO of the Global Fund for Women.
“Also with us will be the Homeward Bound program founder and leadership expert Fabian Dattner, one of NAB 2016’s 100 Women of Influence.
“Beyond on-the-ground science, we’ll be working together to build trust, a sense of self and the ability to give and receive feedback,” Dr Kennedy said.
“These skills can help us coach peers, increase the strategic visibility of women and help connect and communicate scientific ideas.”
Dr Kennedy said she was counting the days until the 22 November departure.
“I’m so excited but as a coral reef scientist, I’m used to tropical waters, so I’m not sure how I’m going to cope with the cold conditions,” Dr Kennedy said.
“Although, of course I’m going to jump in for an Antarctic swim and a dive with the penguins.
“And naturally I’ve convinced myself I’m going to slip on the ice, fall in and get eaten by a leopard seal!”
Also joining the expedition will be and , both affiliated with 宅男导航’s Institute of Molecular Biosciences, and Bianca Das and Dr Karen Aitken from the 宅男导航-based CSIRO offices.
Dr Kennedy said she was grateful for the support – financial and otherwise – provided by 宅男导航, particularly from the Global Change Institute, the SAGE Athena SWAN Program and the Faculty of Science.
Image above left: Penguins in Antarctica (Source: Unsplash)
Media: Dr Emma Kennedy, e.kennedy1@uq.edu.au, +61 403 825 679; Dominic Jarvis, dominic.jarvis@uq.edu.au, +61 413 334 924.
