Two researchers from The University of Western Australia have been inspired after sharing knowledge and experiences at an event held to celebrate science and honour its outstanding achievements earlier this month.

Dr Kimberley Wang and Dr Lillian Wu attended the Australian Academy of Science’s flagship event, Science at the Shine Dome 2024, in Canberra from Monday 9 to Thursday 12 September.

Dr Wang, from the School of Human Sciences, examines the association between low birth weight and asthma, comorbid obesity and asthma, and drugs to mitigate excessive airway muscle.

Dr Wang said the event gave her the opportunity to hear from and meet scientists of all disciplines and showed that diversity was essential in science.

“It allowed me to expand my horizons, and this will only improve my research,” she said.

“As a mid-career researcher, listening to the fellows sharing their career journey and their science, be it discovering basic science or having a clinical impact, are all inspiring.”

Dr Wu, from the School of Engineering, focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence to develop efficient, robust, and scalable transport systems.

She said as an early-career researcher and woman in the engineering profession, she was eager to attend the event.

“Engaging with experts and exchanging insights deepens my understanding of Australia’s future challenges and inspire me to make meaningful contributions to our community,” Dr Wu said.

“A highlight was the opportunity to have face-to-face conversations with esteemed academic fellows — their guidance and advice is invaluable and will greatly enrich my research journey.”

The event is a networking opportunity for Academy Fellows, early and mid-career researchers, government representatives, politicians, media, science associated organisations, and the science-interested general public.

Fellows elected in 2023 and 2024, and award recipients from 2023 and 2024, were recognised across the event, which also celebrated the Academy’s 70th anniversary.