Space agency head to receive honorary doctorate

The University of Adelaide’s acknowledges the important work that Dr Megan Clark is undertaking in the space sector by awarding the Head of the Australian Space Agency an honorary doctorate.

Dr Megan Clark AC, will receive the Doctor of the University (honoris causa) for services to scientific research and development through leadership roles and to the development of public policy for technological sciences.

She has a long and distinguished record of service in the area of STEM research and leadership throughout her career appointments.

“The University of Adelaide is delighted to award Dr Clark an honorary doctorate for her lifetime of service,” says the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Peter Rathjen.

“Dr Clark’s work at the Space Agency will transform and grow a globally respected Australian space industry which will inspire and improve the lives of Australians as well as lifting the broader economy.”

In 2017-2018, Dr Clark completed a federal government review of the space sector in Australia and was subsequently appointed the Head of the Australian Space Agency in May 2018. The goal of the agency is to triple the size of Australia’s space industry by 2030 to $10-$12 billion per year. The agency will have significant economic impact on South Australia and the demand for STEM education in Adelaide.

“Dr Clark’s work at the Space Agency will transform and grow a globally respected Australian space industry which will inspire and improve the lives of Australians as well as lifting the broader economy.”Professor Peter Rathjen

As a trailblazer for women in STEM, Dr Clark’ achievements within the broad area of STEM research innovation and engagement are exceptional.

“It is an honour to receive an honorary doctorate from University of Adelaide and I share this honour with our team at the Australian Space Agency,” says Dr Clark.

“The University of Adelaide is leading exciting research in areas such as space law, machine vision and advanced communication technology for use in space and on earth.”

As the first female CEO of CSIRO Dr Clark supported major projects which are delivering knowledge infrastructure to Australia - the new Marine National Facility (RV Investigator), the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder, the Pawsey Supercomputer and research precincts in Perth, Canberra and Melbourne.

She has been a leader in numerous roles throughout her career including significant roles affecting the broader community and sustainability.

Dr Clark also served as Vice-President at BHP Billiton and Non-Executive Director at NM Rothschild and Sons.

She has maintained a commitment to sustainability throughout her career with roles in this area in Rio Tinto as well as membership of the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and World Economic Forum.

Dr Clark also has a commitment to improving people’s lives through active roles in community service and influencing global equality through her roles at St Vincent’s Hospital Foundation, Care Australia and the Mining for Development Advisory Board for AusAid.

She began her career as a mine geologist and subsequently worked in mineral exploration, mine geology, research and development management, venture capital and technical strategy.

Dr Clark will receive her honorary doctorate during the University's graduation ceremonies in April 2020.