Australian science leaders honoured as Royal Society of Victoria 2026 Fellows
Australian trailblazers recognised for transformative impacts in science
Melbourne, 20 May 2026: The Royal Society of Victoria has announced its 2026 Fellows, the organisation's highest honour, recognising leaders in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM), as well as science communication, who have made distinguished contributions in Victoria, Australia and internationally.
The newly elected Fellows include Amanda Caples, Victoria's Lead Scientist and a key architect of Australia's emerging RNA ecosystem; Elisabetta Barberio, whose research into dark matter builds on her contribution to the discovery of fundamental particles of the universe; and David Lindemayer, an internationally recognised conservation biologist whose work has transformed scientific understanding of biodiversity and forest ecosystems.
The 2026 cohort of 21 Fellows were formally announced at a private ceremony held at the Royal Society of Victoria on 20 May 2026.
President of the Royal Society of Victoria, Rob Gell AM, said the Fellowship recognised individuals whose work continues to shape the future of science and society.
"At a time when the world faces increasingly complex challenges such as climate change, global health and rapidly changing technologies, recognising scientific leadership and lifelong dedication to research has never been more important." Mr Gell said.
"Behind every major scientific achievement are years of commitment and collaboration. This cohort represents the decades of extraordinary contributions that Victorian scientists continue to make to safeguard our future."
Among those recognised this year are:
Professor Elisabetta Barberio
Recognised for internationally distinguished contributions to particle physics, dark matter research, and scientific leadership in Australia.
Dr Drew Berry
Recognised for internationally significant contributions to biomedical visualisation, science communication, and public engagement with scientific discovery.
Dr Amanda Caples
Recognised for distinguished leadership in science policy, biotechnology strategy, and the translation of research into economic and societal impact.
The Honourable Linda Dessau AC CVO
Recognised for distinguished public leadership, service to the Victorian community, and longstanding advocacy for education, wellbeing and civic institutions.
Professor Alan Duffy
Recognised for distinguished contributions to astrophysics, scientific entrepreneurship, and public engagement with science.
Professor Tim Entwisle
Recognised for distinguished leadership in botany, environmental education, and public engagement with science and biodiversity.
Dr Alan Finkel AC FAA FTSE FIEAust FAHMS
Recognised for distinguished national leadership in science, innovation, technology policy and public advocacy for scientific advancement.
Professor Bronwyn Fox AO FRACI FTSE
Recognised for distinguished contributions to advanced materials research, manufacturing innovation, and scientific leadership in Australia.
Professor Douglas Hilton AO FAA FTSE FAHMS
Recognised for distinguished leadership in Australian medical research, scientific collaboration, and national research strategy.
Professor David Karoly FAA
Recognised for internationally distinguished contributions to climate science, environmental policy, and public understanding of climate change.
Professor Sharon Lewin AO FAA FRACP FAHMS
Recognised for internationally distinguished contributions to virology, infectious disease research, and pandemic preparedness.
Professor David Lindenmayer AO FAA
Recognised for internationally distinguished contributions to conservation biology, ecological research, and environmental policy.
Associate Professor Jennifer Martin
Recognised for distinguished contributions to science communication, public engagement, and strengthening communication within the scientific community.
Professor Patrick McGorry AO
Recognised for transformative contributions to youth mental health research, clinical care, and mental health reform.
Professor Moira O'Bryan
Recognised for distinguished contributions to reproductive biology, scientific leadership, and higher education in Australia.
Professor José María Polo
Recognised for internationally distinguished contributions to epigenetics, stem cell biology, and translational biomedical research.
Professor Frances Separovic AO FAA
Recognised for pioneering contributions to biophysical chemistry and distinguished leadership within the international scientific community.
David Shelmerdine AO
Recognised for distinguished leadership in environmental sustainability, climate action, and the integration of science, policy and investment.
Dr Gillian Sparkes AM
Recognised for distinguished contributions to environmental sustainability, public administration, and science-informed policy leadership.
Peter Yates AM FTSE
Recognised for distinguished leadership in strengthening scientific institutions, advancing innovation, and supporting science communication and research in Australia.
The late Professor Emma Johnston AO FAA FTSE FRSN
Recognised posthumously for distinguished contributions to environmental science, scientific leadership, and public engagement with science in Australia.
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About the Royal Society of Victoria
The RSV is a vibrant physical and online hub where Australians with an interest in STEMM can meet to energetically share insights, trade ideas and discuss solutions to society's important challenges.
