IPAS Celebrates Two Finalists for 2025 South Australian Scientist of the Year

Two of the three finalists for the 2025 South Australian Scientist of the Year are members of our Institute. The finalists were nominated by the Chief Scientist for South Australia, reflecting the strength and breadth of research undertaken at the University of Adelaide.

Deputy Director of IPAS and Director of ANFF-Optofab Adelaide, Professor Heike Ebendorff-Heidepriem leads the Photonic Materials and Optical Fibres Lab. Her research focuses on glass and optical fibre innovation, including the development of ZBLAN Space Fibre. In collaboration with industry partner Flawless Photonics, her team produced nearly 12 kilometres of optical fibre in space, significantly advancing capabilities in space manufacturing and quantum communications. This research is contributing to improvements in telecommunications, sensing technologies, and industry applications.

Director of the Centre of Light for Life, Professor Kishan Dholakia leads research at the interface of photonics, quantum science, and biology. His work on structured light has delivered new imaging tools, including the Airy light sheet microscope, which offers new capabilities in biological imaging. His research has broad applications across quantum technologies, precision measurement, and industrial sensing.

Both researchers lead established teams and growing research programs. They are committed to advancing scientific knowledge while supporting education, mentoring, and public engagement with science.

The recognition of these two finalists highlights the depth of expertise within IPAS and the University of Adelaide’s broader research community.

Further information about the 2025 SA Scientist of the Year finalists is available here:
https://www.scienceawards.sa.gov.au/scientist-of-the-year-finalists-2025