Kishan Dholakia awarded the South Australian Scientist of the Year 2025

Professor Kishan Dholakia Named SA Scientist of the Year 2025, Highlighting Global Leadership in Photonics at the Centre of Light for Life

Professor Kishan Dholakia, Director of the Centre of Light for Life at the University of Adelaide, has been awarded the South Australian Scientist of the Year 2025, recognising his world-leading contributions to photonics and transdisciplinary science. The award was presented by Chief Scientist for South Australia, Professor Craig Simmons, at the SA Science Excellence and Innovation Awards Ceremony 2025.

As a global pioneer in structured light and precision measurement, Professor Dholakia has transformed the way light is used as a tool for sensing, imaging, and discovery. Through the Centre of Light for Life, he leads a dynamic team working at the intersection of fundamental physics and real-world impact — advancing technologies that stretch from quantum science to biology and medicine. His research continues to redefine what is possible when photonics and innovation converge.

In his acceptance speech, Professor Dholakia emphasised the collective nature of scientific progress, celebrating the students, researchers, and collaborators who shape the Centre’s achievements. “Science is never a solo journey; it is a shared story based on curiosity,” he said.

Professor Dholakia also reflected on South Australia’s growing prominence as a global science hub. “South Australia is an extraordinary home for science—it embraces innovation and values excellence in collaboration. We are small enough to know one another and yet ambitious enough to take on global challenges… I am indebted and excited to contribute to that journey.”

The evening also highlighted the strength of the broader scientific community at the University of Adelaide and Institute of Photonics and Advanced Sensing, with Professor Heike Ebendorff-Heidepriem and Professor Matthew Gilliham as finalists for SA Scientist of the Year and Professor Withawat Withayachumnankul recognised as a finalist for STEMM Educator of the Year. Their achievements underscore the depth of world-class research talent at the University of Adelaide.

Professor Dholakia closed with a heartfelt thanks to the selection committee, funders, academic societies, University colleagues, students, postdoctoral staff, collaborators, mentors, friends, and his family, offering special acknowledgement to his collaborator and partner, A/Prof Kylie Dunning.

This award marks a significant moment for the Centre of Light for Life and a milestone for photonics research in South Australia.