UNSW STEMM Champions Program
Maximise your impact in research, work, and community through our STEMM Champions Program
The UNSW STEMM Champions Program is a transformative 12-month cross-faculty initiative that builds upon the success of the UNSW Women in Maths and Science Champions Program. It empowers women, non-binary, and gender-diverse higher degree and early career researchers with the skills, confidence and networks needed to excel in their careers and become visible advocates as STEMM professionals.
"STEMM Champions has been a highlight of my career at UNSW thus far. Coming together with like-minded peers and creating a supportive community has been fabulous. The workshops, particularly social media and strengthening communication skills, have equipped me with a repertoire of tools I know I can use for the rest of my career. The outreach activities were so fulfilling and made me feel like I made a difference; the students definitely taught me a thing or too as well. I’m so glad the program was extended to include those of us from Medicine and Health!"
- Kate Drury, STEMM Champion 2024
Program overview and key benefits
The STEMM Champions Program is offered by UNSW Science in collaboration with UNSW Engineering and UNSW Medicine & Health. The program features a series of development workshops focused on:
- Presentation skills
- Social media skills
- Communication skills
- Leadership development
- Career development.
STEMM Champion candidates are also required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of outreach activities within the twelve-month program. The aim is to encourage and inspire the next generation of girls, women, non-binary and gender diverse people to pursue a career in STEMM. This engagement fosters a strong community of ambassadors who are closely connected with UNSW's outreach efforts.
To further support candidates' growth, the program includes strengths profile assessments, one-on-one career coaching, and cohort networking events.
Who should apply?
Higher Degree Researcher (HDR) cohort
The HDR cohort is for women, non-binary, and gender-diverse students enrolled in a PhD or Masters by Research in UNSW Science, UNSW Engineering, or UNSW Medicine & Health (full-time or part-time equivalent). They have aspirations for personal and professional growth and will commit to the role of UNSW STEMM Champion.
Early Career Researcher (ECR) cohort
The ECR Cohort is for women, non-binary, and gender-diverse researchers who are 0–7 years post‑PhD or who hold an undergraduate STEMM degree and at least 5 years’ experience working in STEMM (excluding career interruptions). They must currently hold an academic or professional position in UNSW Science, UNSW Engineering, or UNSW Medicine & Health. They have aspirations for personal and professional growth and will commit to the role of UNSW STEMM Champion.
We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, people with disability, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and LGBTQIA+ people.
Program timetable
The program consists of six development workshops delivered through a blend of online and face-to-face sessions at the UNSW Kensington campus.
"When I joined the STEMM Champions program, I expected to improve my communication and leadership skills, but the experience far exceeded my expectations. Through various workshops, I've learned how to engage diverse audiences and present my research more effectively. At SciFest during National Science Week, I, along with another STEMM Champion, had the opportunity to explain bioinformatics to inspire future scientists. Overall, the program has been a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow scientists, share experiences, and deepen my commitment to my scientific career."
- Gabriela Santos Rodriguez, STEMM Champion 2024
For more information on how you can support the STEMM Champions Program, or if you have any questions please contact the STEMM Champions Manager.