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“You can’t be what you can’t see” - Dr Cathy Foley Today is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. It’s a chance to reflect on the progress made, celebrate remarkable achievements and look ahead to the work still to do. I want to give a shout out to some brilliant Australian scientists who’ve made breakthroughs that have benefited not just our nation, but the world. I could name so many more. If you know someone who deserves acknowledgement today, tag them in the comments below. Keep reading to learn more about the outstanding scientists you see in these photos. 1. Ruby Payne-Scott In the 1940’s, while working for the Australian Air Force, Ruby Payne-Scott laid the foundation work for what would become the field of radio astronomy. Her work led to the discoveries of deep space phenomena like black holes and pulsars, and was integral to understanding the effects solar storms have in space and here on Earth. 2. Dr Isabel Joy Bear Dr Bear is best known for the chemical characterisation and naming of ‘petrichor’. This is the word that describes that distinctive earthy smell you notice just before it rains. Her life's work was invaluable to the fields of metallurgy and solid-state chemistry. 3. Dr Cathy Foley As Australia’s Chief Scientist from Jan 2021 to Dec 2024, Dr Foley has helped foster and shape our country's scientific community and its research. A passionate advocate for Australia’s Quantum industry, her pioneering work has contributed to the science community's understanding of nitride semiconductors and superconducting electronics. 4. Dr Fiona Wood Dr Wood established her medical career working as a doctor in hospitals in Australia and England before becoming interested in the field of plastic surgery. Dr Wood’s work led to a breakthrough in ‘spray on skin’ technology leading to much improved outcomes for patients suffering from burns in Australia and across the globe. 5. Dr Kristen Banks Dr Banks is not just an expert in the field of astrophysics. She's also an expert at making science fun and accessible to the public. With nearly one million followers, Dr Banks is using her digital presence to empower young people and inspire them to follow her into a career in STEM. Dr Banks' Wiradjuri heritage brings a unique POV to her work, blending First Nations knowledge with western science.