Climate change, erupting volcanoes and the achievements of women in earth science will be discussed at a University of Queensland symposium this week.
The School of Earth and Environmental Sciences’ Dr Teresa Ubide said outstanding women in the field would be showcased.
“Eminent speakers will cover a range of fields in the geosciences, including marine geology, past climates, geochemistry, geophysics, mineral resources and energy, petrology and tectonics,” Dr Ubide said.
“It is a great opportunity to discuss science with internationally renowned experts, and a chance to learn more about the pathways to academic and industry careers and leadership roles in the earth sciences.”
The two-day event will feature scientific talks, panel discussions, a poster session and social events aimed at providing opportunities for networking and career development.
“Earth and environmental scientists at any career stage – men and women – will get a lot from this event,” Dr Ubide said.
“Younger, future scientists are included; some high school students will be running an introductory volcano research workshop.”
Dr Ubide said the last Dorothy Hill symposium – in 2017 – was “refreshing, honest, thought-provoking and inspiring.”
“I can’t wait to do it all again this year,” she said.
UQ awarded Dorothy Hill her first-class honours degree in 1928 and her Science doctorate in 1942.
She worked as a UQ research fellow during the War, and later was a lecturer, research professor and professor.
“Professor Hill was a pioneer in geological and paleontological research and a leader for women in science,” Dr Ubide said.
“She was Australia’s first female professor and the first female president of the Australian Academy of Science.
“She left a powerful physical legacy of fossil slides and specimens, and authored more than 100 articles and books.
“She’s remembered in the naming of a state electorate, a Gold Coast street, a school campus, a library, a marine research vessel, a UQ scholarship and two medals awarded annually by the Australian Academy of Science and the Geological Society of Australia (Qld).”
Dorothy Hill died in 1997, aged 89.
“Her bequest of personal papers and donation to the UQ Library continues to inspire new generations of students and scientists, who are equally keen to make a positive impact on the world,” Dr Ubide said.
The 14-15 November Symposium program and registration details are on the event’s website.
Read more about Dorothy Hill in The hammer that shaped a university.
Media: Dr Teresa Ubide, t.ubide@uq.edu.au, +61 403 334 152, +61 7 3365 2677; Dominic Jarvis, dominic.jarvis@uq.edu.au, +61 413 334 924.
