The late Professor Malcolm Chaikin AO OBE FTSE personified the impact that academia, learning and education can have on the world. His pioneering work in industrial waste treatment, recycling and desalination demonstrates the critical role that research plays in shaping wider conversations and action regarding critical issues – sustainability in this case. Chaikin’s story illustrates the importance and huge opportunities for universities to look beyond their own walls. In the context of increased competition across the sector, his focus on collaboration was markedly progressive.
Join us in person or online on Tuesday 31 October in Sydney to celebrate Dr Katherine Woodthorpe AO FTSE FAICD as our 2023 Chaikin Orator. In this Oration titled “The road less travelled“, Dr Katherine Woodthorpe, will share insights from her illustrious career path, discuss her journey to becoming ATSE President, and outline her vision for the future of STEM in Australia.
Speaker
Dr Katherine Woodthorpe AO FTSE FAICD
President, Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering
Dr Katherine Woodthorpe AO FTSE is one of Australia’s most influential people in innovation. She is also a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has been a Fellow of ATSE since 2015. In 2017, she received an Order of Australia for her ongoing service to research and technology innovation in Australia.
She has been a professional director for over 20 years including as Chair of Natural Hazards Research Australia, the Antarctic Science Foundation and the HEARing Cooperative Research Centre. She has been a Director of the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Bioplatforms Australia (NCRIS), the Australian Renewable Energy Agency, Vast Solar, and listed companies Sirtex and Anteotech. She previously chaired the National Climate Science Advisory Committee and currently chairs the Government’s “Vision 2040” committee reviewing the strategy for investment in medical research for the next two decades.
The Chaikin Oration
The Chaikin Oration is the key annual event of the ATSE NSW Division, established in 2012 to honour the lifetime contributions of Professor Malcolm Chaikin AO OBE FTSE to science, technology, education and philanthropy. The Oration and Medal is awarded to an outstanding technologist and educator who has contributed to society in the Chaikin tradition. This year we are privileged to welcome Dr Katherine Woodthorpe AO FTSE FAICD to present the Oration.