Picture: Jack Fox (ANU)
A researcher from the Australian National University has been elected President of the Australian Institute of Physics.
Jodie Bradby (pictured) is the second woman to hold the position, after being nominated by her colleagues.
Professor Bradby said she was keen to use her term as president to challenge some of the stereotypes around what a typical physicist looked like.
“A real passion of mine is making sure women consider physics as an interesting career option, and if they have an interest they’re not put off when they enter high school or university,” Professor Bradby said.
“Simply getting out there and being seen can make a big difference.”
She said that if girls did not see women in the roles it was hard to picture themselves there.
Professor Bradby said she was also eager to set an example for her peers, and hoped that by throwing herself into her new role she would encourage others to make the most of leadership opportunities.
“I really appreciate the faith put in me by my colleagues,” she said.
“I’m looking forward to travelling around and meeting other physicists — both in Australia and overseas.”
The Australian Institute of Physics is dedicated to promoting the role of physics in research, education, industry and the wider community.
Professor Bradby will be president for two-years.
