University of Adelaide Delegation Engages at Science Meets Parliament 2024

Last week, a distinguished delegation comprising 26 leaders, professionals, and research staff from the University of Adelaide, including members from the Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS), participated in Science Meets Parliament 2024 held in Canberra.

Hosted annually by Science & Technology Australia, Science Meets Parliament aims to enhance engagement between the STEM sector and policymakers. As a proud sponsor of this event, the University of Adelaide demonstrates its commitment to fostering collaboration and driving impactful change at the intersection of science and policy. Researchers had the opportunity to meet with Ministers and senior department leaders to share and promote the innovative research they are undertaking. Researchers also had the chance to upskill on how to engage effectively with government stakeholders and took part in networking events and parliamentary tours.

Among the many delegates was Prof Mark Hutchinson, Director of IPAS, who shared his reflections, "Witnessing Ed Husic MP's championing of all our diverse science and technology was a highlight of Science Meets Parliament. His strong support underscores the importance of collaboration between policymakers and scientists to drive Australian innovation forward."

Researchers from IPAS were present including Dr Cheryl Law, Dr Sarah Scholten and Dr Chris Perrella. They had the invaluable opportunity to interact with Ministers and senior department leaders, where they presented their cutting-edge research conducted not only for IPAS. Sarah and Chris also represented the ARC Centre of Excellence in Optical Microcombs for Breakthrough Science (COMBS) and the Centre for Light for Life.

IPAS' active participation in Science Meets Parliament reaffirms its dedication to driving scientific advancements and contributing to informed policymaking for the betterment of society.