Celebrate National Science Week by getting to know 7 awesome Queensland scientists
Issued: 7 Aug 8 min read

Dr Artem Pulemotov

Dr Pulemotov, an associate professor of mathematics at The University of Queensland, is passionate about teaching, researching, and mentoring in maths. Alongside his academic duties, he organises conferences and serves on university committees – he walks the talk when it comes to contributing to the academic community.

One of the most exciting developments in his field of geometric analysis was the proof of the Poincaré conjecture, a century-old problem related to the shape of the universe. "Mathematicians usually get excited when an old and stubborn problem in their field gets resolved," he notes. Although the conjecture was settled 20 years ago, the ideas that emerged from its proof continue to inspire ongoing research.

Reflecting on his proudest achievement, Artem highlights his decade-long work on the prescribed Ricci curvature problem. "We found new and exciting mathematical phenomena, including examples of different spaces with the same curvature that were related to each other in very unusual ways," he explains. This work has significantly advanced the understanding of geometric analysis.

Encouraging engagement with local science, Dr Pulemotov emphasises the intellectual satisfaction and meaningful achievements that come with solving scientific problems. He jokes, "Remember Sesame Street? The Count is the only one who knows mathematics and also the only one who has his own castle. Coincidence? I don’t think so."

At National Science Week’s The Sound of Symmetry event, he promises an extraordinary blend of mathematics, physics, art history, and music, with contributions from colleagues Denis Collins and Robert Davidson, as well as the chamber ensemble Topology. "It’ll be a unique instance of science and art coming together," he says, inviting audiences to witness the fusion of these two strikingly different disciplines.

Keely Perry

As a Research Assistant and Indigenous Liaison at The University of Queensland, in affiliation with the National Indigenous Science Translation Centre, Keely works with academic and industry partners to establish the NISTC's foundational structure from research, Indigenous, and educational perspectives.

Exciting developments in her field include the centre itself, which she describes as "the first Indigenous-led, Indigenous-owned research centre of its kind, involving Indigenous parties across Australia."

Despite being an early-stage researcher, Keely proudly highlights her first piece of published research and lengthier piece of prose. "Career achievement-wise, I’ve written a book – which I find super exciting, and am incredibly proud of," she shares.

To those considering involvement in local science, she stresses the diversity and evolving nature of the field. "Science is part of everyday life. It has applications across all jobs and living experiences. And most important of all – it’s fun!"

At National Science Week’s STEM in the Outback launch in Cloncurry, she’s keen to showcase the diverse applications of Australian native bush foods, highlighting their uses as food, materials, and medicine.

Liam Krueger

Liam Krueger is a registered pharmacist and PhD candidate at The University of Queensland's School of Pharmacy. His research focuses on combining medications with polymers and using 3D printing to create personalised medicine – real futuristic stuff.

He finds the progress in new clinical trials overseas particularly exciting: "It inspires hope that this technology will be available in Australia soon." Reflecting on his achievements, Liam highlights his first research paper and an article he wrote for The Conversation about 3D medicine. "I designed the tablets and manufactured the filament from the ground up. It was extremely rewarding to have all that hard work come together so nicely."

Liam is keen for folks to explore local science, mentioning the unexpected joys of new experiences: "It was a happy accident that I developed a passion for this field of research, and it wouldn't have happened if I didn't give something completely new a try."

At National Science Week’s From Pixels to Pills event, you can expect a chance to get hands-on. "You'll have the opportunity to design your own tablet and watch it print live," Liam explains – so you can see the practical applications of pharmaceutical 3D printing in action!

Dr Mariel Familiar López

Dr Mariel Familiar López is a wildlife biologist and science communication specialist at the forefront of amphibian and shark conservation. Her research addresses the impacts of disease and climate change on frog populations, aiming to contribute to global amphibian conservation efforts. She has also expanded her research into the movement and behavioural ecology of hammerhead and bull sharks in Southeast Queensland waters.

She highlights the alarming decline of amphibian populations due to Chytridiomycosis, a disease that has caused the extinction of more than 500 species globally. “Creating ‘frog saunas’ could help save species from this devastating chytrid fungal disease,” she says, noting the accessibility of this low-cost solution for public involvement. On top of this, her shark research will help create better management strategies for these critical marine species.

Among her proudest achievements are her roles as a science communicator and STEM advocate – and as a self-professed STEMinist, she’s leading the charge to get women involved in science. She featured in a National Geographic documentary during its Shark Fest and joined an all-female Inspiring Australia ambassador team. “Being showcased as a Latina in STEM doing shark science, especially fieldwork, was incredibly rewarding,” she shares. Mariel encourages everyone to embrace their local science community: “It’s about connecting with others, making a difference, and enjoying the process of discovery.”

For National Science Week 2024, she will be at Cloncurry’s Opening Day and Science at Heart in Dubbo, presenting vivid talks and interactive demonstrations on frogs and sharks – and yes, we’ve heard there will be a frog call game. “The best part is sharing scientific knowledge and my passion for science with others!”

Embracing Queensland science: get involved!

If you’ve ever wanted to get involved in your local science scene but weren’t sure where to start, check out the National Science Week website and the events happening near you on the Inspiring Australia Queensland website. Whether you want to have a casual chat at the pub or get hands-on with some citizen science, there’s something for every curious mind! You don’t have to limit yourself to just the week, either – there are loads of ongoing citizen science projects in Queensland or other STEM education activities that you can jump into.