The evolution of the Australian continent, the triggers behind volcanic eruptions, and the achievements of women in earth science will be on the agenda at a University of Queensland symposium this month.
UQ’s School of Earth and Environmental Sciences organising committee chair Dr Teresa Ubide said the inaugural Dorothy Hill Women in Earth Sciences Symposium (November 15-16) would showcase the contribution of outstanding women in the earth sciences.
“Eminent speakers will cover a range of fields in the geosciences, including marine geology, past climates, geochemistry, geomicrobiology, geophysics, mineral resources and energy, petrology, seismology, tectonics and volcanology,” she said.
“The symposium is not only a great opportunity to discuss science with internationally-renowned experts, but a chance to learn more about the pathways to academic and industry careers and leadership roles in the earth science field.”
Dr Ubide said the symposium honoured the late UQ Professor Dorothy Hill - a pioneer in geological and paleontological research and a leader for women in science.
“She was the first female professor in Australia and the first female president of the Australian Academy of Science,” Dr Ubide said.
“She left a powerful physical legacy of fossil slides and specimens, and authored more than 100 articles and books.
“She is 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).
“While 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, equally keen to make a positive impact on the world.”
Find the program and registration at www.dorothyhillsymposium.com.au, on Facebook, or contact organisers at dhsymposium@absoluteevents.com.au for more information.
Read about Dorothy Hill in The hammer that shaped a university.
Media: Dr Teresa Ubide, t.ubide@uq.edu.au, +61 7 3365 2677.
