From 1995 to 2012, the Australian Academy of Science documented the remarkable stories of Australian scientists through the Interviews with Australian Scientists program.
The Academy recorded interviews with nearly 150 researchers, from Dame Bridget Ogilvie, the ‘girl from the bush’ who became Director of the Wellcome Trust, to pioneering microbiologist Professor Frank Fenner who oversaw the eradication of smallpox.
But there are still so many fascinating tales waiting to be told.
You can help us capture them before they’re lost to the mists of time.
The Academy is committed to reinvigorating Interviews with Australian Scientists in audio (podcast) format. Join us to support this project recording stories that will enrich and inspire the next generation of exceptional scientists.
“It’s investing in our future,” said Academy Fellow Professor Robyn Williams, ABC science journalist and broadcaster. “When you hear these stories about how things can be transformed, you are both inspired and excited.”
Interviews with Australian Scientists goes beyond the soundbite to delve deep into the extraordinary lives and achievements of our best and brightest. “All of these stories show how marvellously human and broad are our scientists.”
“You need to know when something's important and worth paying attention to, and if it’s from the Academy, it will be,” he adds.
The Academy has committed $25,000 to the project and invites you to add to this worthy venture to preserve our shared history.
Your donation will contribute toward the costs of preparing for and conducting the interviews of Fellows of the Academy.
In the fast-paced age of technology and endless emails, the importance of taking the time to document our scientists’ amazing lives cannot be underestimated, Professor Williams said. “The number of science media publications and broadcasts is getting smaller and smaller, so if you don't do it, no one else will.”
© 2024 Australian Academy of Science
