Award Recipients
Congratulations to all nominees, shortlisted candidates, and in particular, to the outstanding 2025 University Award recipients.
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Research Excellence and Impact
An award for an early-career researcher
Dr Gemeng Liang
ARC DECRA Fellow in the School of School of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering & Technology
Gemeng is recognised for his pioneering research in advanced battery materials, which has led to significant international collaborations and industry partnerships, translating fundamental science into real-world energy solutions. His work exemplifies innovation and impact, with over $4.7 million in competitive funding and a global research footprint that is shaping Australia’s transition to sustainable energy.
An award for a mid-career researcher
Dr Cameron Shearer
Lecturer in Sustainable Chemistry in the School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering & Technology
Cameron is recognised for his impactful research in environmental chemistry, particularly in the remediation of persistent pollutants like PFAS. His patented treatment technology is now being scaled up with industry, demonstrating real-world application of academic innovation. With over $4.3 million in competitive funding and a strong international collaborative network, Dr Shearer’s work is shaping sustainable solutions to global environmental challenges.
An award for outstanding mentorship
A/Professor Wendy Ingman
Externally funded Research Fellow in the Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
Wendy is recognised for her exceptional mentorship, which has shaped the careers of over 70 early- and mid-career researchers, most of whom are women and culturally diverse. Her personalised, inclusive approach has led to outstanding outcomes in research, leadership, and policy impact. Through national advocacy, university-wide initiatives, and hands-on support, Wendy has built a mentoring legacy that empowers individuals and strengthens the research community.
An award for an interdisciplinary research team (Academic, Professional or mixed)
Imagendo
Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences and
School of Computer and Math Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering & Technology
Team representative: Dr Jodie Avery
Dr Anna Fragkoudi Brittany Green
Dr Mathew Leonardi Chloe Hicks
Professor George Condous Professor Louise Hull
Tegan Devlin Dr Yuan Zhang
Isabelle Burgess Dr Steven Knox
Jessica Broadbent Alison Deslandes
Teresa Bueti Dr Tim Chen
The IMAGENDO Team is recognised for their groundbreaking interdisciplinary work in transforming endometriosis diagnosis through AI-driven imaging. Combining expertise from medicine, radiology, computer science, and industry, the team developed the world’s first multimodal diagnostic prototype—now patented and validated in clinical settings. Their innovation is improving lives, shaping policy, and setting new global benchmarks in women’s health.
The Cystic Fibrosis Airway Research Group and Respiratory X-Ray Laboratory
Robinson Research Institute, Department of Research Innovation and
Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
Team representative: A/Professor Martin Donnelley
Dr Alexandra McCarron Bernadette Boog
Dr Ronan Smith Stuti Saini
Dr Nathan Rout-Pitt Madison Davis
Dr Nikki Reyne
The Cystic Fibrosis Airway Research Group and Respiratory X-Ray Laboratory is recognised for their pioneering interdisciplinary work in cystic fibrosis research, combining gene therapy and advanced imaging to transform diagnosis and treatment. Their development of X-ray Velocimetry and mutation-agnostic gene therapy has led to global clinical adoption and over $30 million in funding. Their innovations are reshaping respiratory health care for children and adults worldwide.
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An Enhanced Student Experience
An award for a staff member
Gabriel Azpilcueta
English Language Teacher in Education Transformation, Division of Academic and Student Engagement
Gabriel is recognised for his innovative leadership of the Academic Integrity Ambassador Program at the English Language Centre. By empowering international students to lead peer-based initiatives, Gabriel has created a supportive and engaging environment that fosters ethical learning and student agency. His work has enhanced student confidence, leadership, and understanding of academic integrity, earning sector-wide recognition and transforming the student experience.
An award for a team
Tasty Tuesday
ABLE Faculty office and School of Social Sciences, Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics
Team representative: Liz Claessen
Mark Pickford Natalie De Favari
Jacqui Stockley Dr Di Rodger
The Tasty Tuesday Team is recognised for their outstanding contribution to student wellbeing through a creative and compassionate initiative that addresses food insecurity and fosters community. By serving over 3,000 meals across key academic periods, the team has built a welcoming space that encourages connection, reduces isolation, and supports students experiencing financial hardship. Their work exemplifies respect, collegiality, and care in action.
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A Culture of Service Innovation and Excellence
An award for a staff member
Dr Sarah Gilbert
Microanalysis Specialist in Research Infrastructure and Platforms, Division of Research Innovation
Sarah is recognised for her pioneering contributions to analytical geochronology, which have positioned the University of Adelaide as a global leader in the field. Through innovative method development, exceptional service quality, and mentoring over 100 students and researchers, Sarah has transformed mass spectrometry capabilities at Adelaide Microscopy. Her work has underpinned major research grants, industry partnerships, and international recognition, exemplifying excellence in service, innovation, and impact.
An award for a team
Global Engagement: Taking Adelaide to the World
Global Engagement, Division of External Engagement
Team representative: Phillip Fredericks
Amelia Aranda Del Castillo Keith Rebello
Belinda Kon Mariela Sotelo Zapata
Celeste Yang Neo Trevion Lozano
Chen Wang Rosa Pearson
Courtney Grindrod Rosanna Galvin
Daniel Tackage Susanne Raneskold
Ibaadat Chaudhary Dr Vanessa Cavagnaro
Jasmin Weatherley Victoria Bick
Jett Zivolvic Linh Le
Julia Zhao Beth Eastall
The Global Engagement: Taking Adelaide to the World Team is recognised for their strategic leadership in advancing the University’s international profile through innovative initiatives such as the Senior Executive Missions and Global Opportunity and Impact Forums. Their work has strengthened global partnerships, enhanced staff engagement, and delivered high-impact resources that support collaboration across the University. Their commitment to excellence, collegiality, and discovery exemplifies a culture of service innovation.
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A Connected and Enriched Community
An award for a staff member
Dr Amelie Burgess
Senior Lecturer in the Adelaide Business School, Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics
Amelie is recognised for her exceptional leadership in creating a more inclusive and connected University community. Through innovative teaching frameworks, disability advocacy, and deep engagement with alumni and industry, Amelie has removed barriers to participation and fostered belonging for students and staff alike. Her work exemplifies the University’s values and enhances its reputation for equity, inclusion, and social impact.
An award for a team
Mobile Language’s team’s Katiti Wiru Project team
School of Humanities, Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics
Team representative: Dr Paul Monaghan
Karina Lester Amelia Amos
Will Fisher Juliet Mulherin
Jaylon Newchurch Emeritus Professor Peter Muhlausler
The Mobile Language Team’s Katiti Wiru Project team is recognised for their transformative work on the Katiti Wiru, meaning “Healthy Teeth” project, which integrates oral health education with Indigenous language revitalisation. By delivering culturally resonant resources in Yankunytjatjara and engaging over 500 community members, the team has fostered trust, strengthened language use, and improved health outcomes. Their collaborative, values-driven approach exemplifies excellence in community engagement and cultural understanding.
‘You Belong’ team
Student Experience, Division of Academic and Student Engagement and
Integrity Unit, Division of University Operations
Team representative: Chelsea Deckert
Jacqui Faliszewski
The Student Health and Wellbeing Team is recognised for their student-informed, research-driven campaign ‘You Belong’, which fosters inclusion and emotional connection across campus. Through bold visuals, authentic storytelling, and co-designed messaging, the initiative centres diverse student voices and visibly embeds equity and wellbeing into University life. Their work sets a new benchmark for inclusive practice and strengthens the culture of belonging at Adelaide.
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Leadership Impact
Professor Sarah Robertson
NHMRC Investigator Fellow in the School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
Sarah is recognised for her transformative leadership in reproductive immunology and her unwavering commitment to inclusive, values-driven research culture. Through pioneering discoveries that have reshaped clinical practice and improved outcomes for families worldwide, Sarah exemplifies the University’s leadership and values frameworks. Her mentorship, advocacy, and global collaborations continue to elevate the University’s impact and reputation in health and medical sciences.
