Award win shows sky's the limit for Deakin women in research

Dr Karen Lamb, a research fellow at Deakin's Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), was welcomed to the 2017 Superstars of STEM Program by Senator the Hon Arthur Sinodinos, Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, at an event in Sydney this morning.

Dr Lamb is among 30 women researchers recognised as part of the program, which aims to raise the profile of Australia’s most dynamic female scientists and technologists and create a critical mass of strong, visible, relatable and public female role models in STEM.

Co-director of IPAN, and Head of Deakin's School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Professor David Crawford congratulated Dr Lamb on her achievement.

"Deakin knows that when women are given the opportunity to succeed in STEM they don't just contribute, they lead the pack," Professor Crawford said.

"Both Deakin's two Australian Laureates are women who are leading the world in STEM-related research. Professor Maria Forsyth's research into battery technology is breaking new ground, and Professor Svetha Venkatesh is recognised as one of Australia's leading experts in pattern analysis for accelerating scientific innovation.

"And here in the School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, the dedication of women just like Karen working across our team has played a crucial role in why we are ranked number one in the world for Sports Science."

Dr Lamb's mentor, and Associate Head of School (Research) for Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, NHMRC Principal Research Fellow Professor Kylie Ball said there were still not enough women entering into careers in STEM disciplines.

"While there are a number of reasons for this, a lack of role models is one key factor," Professor Ball said.

"With this award, Karen aims to contribute to addressing this issue. Karen is not only a brilliant statistician, she is a dedicated and inspiring role model and champion for other women working in or considering careers in statistics."

Dr Lamb currently collaborates with academics across IPAN providing statistics support and consultation for projects in nutrition and physical activity, as well as furthering her own research.

"I love the diversity and type of projects I can get involved in, and that I get to make a special contribution through my skills in mathematics," she said.

"I think it's really important that people, especially women, are aware what you can do with mathematics. There really are so many opportunities out there.

"It's an area that can be very male dominated though, especially in senior positions. That’s why it’s so critical to have a female role model to look up to and give you something to aim towards."