The University of Melbourne has conferred honorary doctorates on six eminent people for their endeavours in a variety of fields.
The group includes a pioneer in scientific discovery and human health, a global leader in food security and climate resilience, advocates for human rights and social justice, a First Nations theatre practitioner and cultural leader and a globally pre-eminent structural engineer.
The six recipients were conferred with the University of Melbourne's highest honour during various graduation ceremonies in December 2025.
They are:
Professor Elizabeth Blackburn, Doctor of Science (honoris causa): A Nobel Laureate and University of Melbourne graduate, Professor Blackburn is renowned for her co-discovery of telomerase and her groundbreaking research on telomeres – the protective structures at the ends of chromosomes that play a key role in ageing and disease. Her discoveries have reshaped understanding of cellular ageing and have had profound implications for human health, influencing research across biology, medicine and public health worldwide. Read more here.
Professor Lindiwe Majele Sibanda, Doctor of Science (honoris causa): A globally recognised leader, Professor Sibanda's work focuses on strengthening agricultural systems to support livelihoods, equity and environmental sustainability, particularly in regions most vulnerable to climate change. She has held senior leadership roles across Africa and internationally, including as Chair of the Board of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) System. Professor Sibanda has advised governments, multilateral organisations and global research bodies on food systems transformation and climate adaptation. Read more here.
Rachael Maza AM, Doctor of Fine Arts and Music (honoris causa): One of Australia's most respected First Nations theatre practitioners and cultural leaders, Ms Maza is of Yidinji heritage from the Torres Strait Island of Mer. She has dedicated her career to the power of storytelling as a force for truth-telling, self-determination and social justice. She has brought First Nations stories, languages and experiences to audiences around the world, fostering cultural understanding and inspiring new generations of Indigenous artists. She continues to shape the national arts landscape through her many leadership roles, including as Artistic Director of ILBIJERRI Theatre Company. Read more here.
Professor Andrew Stuart Whittaker, Doctor of Engineering (honoris causa): A globally pre-eminent structural engineer, Professor Whittaker's contributions to earthquake and blast engineering have fundamentally advanced the resilience and safety of infrastructure worldwide. Presently SUNY Distinguished Professor at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York, his technical contributions have directly shaped international design standards and codes that govern the safety of buildings, nuclear facilities and blast-resistant infrastructure. His career reflects a rare combination of scholarly excellence, real-world impact and international thought leadership, and he has remained an active ambassador for the University, inspiring students and advancing international academic networks. Read more here.
Mr Neri Colmenares, Doctor of Laws (honoris causa): A renowned human-rights lawyer and former political prisoner of the Ferdinand Marcos regime, he is well known for his courage and unwavering dedication to the poor and marginalised in the Philippines and beyond. A three-term legislator and Senior Deputy Minority Leader in the Philippine Congress (2007-2016), he authored transformative human rights laws, including the Anti-Torture Act, the Anti-Enforced Disappearance Law and the Repatriation Act for Martial Law victims. He has also been instrumental in advancing the Philippines' engagement with the International Criminal Court (ICC). Read more here.
Dr Arnold Zable, Doctor of Letters (honoris causa): Dr Zable is an acclaimed writer and human rights advocate, whose work on the humanising power of story has had a deep effect on Australian culture and society across four decades. His award-winning, much-loved books, essays, plays and stories comprise moving and ethical accounts of mobility, refuge and displacement, memory and community. Dr Zable contributes to many cross-cultural projects and workshops for groups including refugees, people experiencing homelessness, the deaf community, problem gamblers, bushfire survivors and other communities. His many awards include the Voltaire Prize in 2013 for human rights advocacy and the promotion of free speech and the Australia Council Lifetime Achievement in Literature Award in 2021. Read more here.
University of Melbourne Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Jane Gunn commended the six recipients. "Their research and advocacy have made important and lasting contributions to the world around us and it is fitting the University recognises each of them with an honorary doctorate, our highest honour," Professor Gunn said.
