Superstars of STEM

Published in the Research School of Physics Event Horizon
Vol47 Issue31 8–12 August 2022

Participants in the program, run by Science and Technology Australia and financially supported by the Australian Government and program partners, receive high-quality advanced communication training and support to build a media and public profile. Over two years, they are supported to generate media and speaking opportunities. They also “pay-it-forward” by engaging with students in high school and encouraging them to study STEM.

In a recent evaluation of the program, a remarkable 100% of current employers who have a Superstar in this program said they would recommend the program to another staff member in their organisation based on the benefits they observed for their employee.

It is estimated each Superstar receives more than $24,000 of benefits including advanced communication training, mentoring, professional services and support. The program has had over 6,600 media mentions since it began and regularly reaches millions of people through social media and traditional media. You can find out more about the impact of the program on the website and read the program evaluation.

In 2022, we are particularly encouraging applications from senior women and non-binary people in STEM. The program helps supercharge the career progression of participants. This is a valuable opportunity to help support even more women into the top echelons of leadership at your university.  

More background on the program is available here. If you have questions or wish to discuss the program, please contact the Superstars of STEM program manager, Dr Sandra Gardam sandra.gardam@sta.org.au.