For the world-renowned marine biologist, pacesetting conservationist and deputy vice-chancellor of research at the University of Sydney Professor Emma Johnston, 2024 has been “such a big year!”.
From making contributions to Australia’s first National Climate Risk Assessment to welcoming 40 new Horizon Fellows to the University of Sydney (outstanding researchers in the early stages of their careers who are tackling health, climate change, and sustainability research challenges) and leading her research team’s work to document and better understand the fifth mass
bleaching event on the Great Barrier Reef, there’s plenty to be proud of.
Then came the cherry on top: in September it was announced that Johnston would become the first female vice-chancellor of the University of Melbourne starting in February 2025.
For Johnston – who completed her bachelor of science and doctor of philosophy degrees in her home town of Melbourne more than 20 years ago – it’s a full circle moment that
shows what can be achieved when we overcome limiting beliefs. “The doubts you feel may be a result of societal expectations and the lack of female role models.
They don’t reflect your true capacity, resilience and resolve,” says Johnston of her advice for the next generation of changemakers.
“If you think you will enjoy a new challenge, just go for it! If I had let self-doubt limit my choices then I would never have dived under the ice in Antarctica, made television series, or been a co-chief author of Australia’s most important report on the environment.” Touché.
marie claire’s 2024 Women of the Year Awards are presented by Swarovski and supported by Volvo, Max Mara, Revlon, Dr Lewinns and G.H. Mumm.
