A cyber security expert and a breath of fresh air, Deakin's Superstars of STEM

Dr Fariha Jaigirdar, a researcher, lecturer, and AI enthusiast from the School of Information Technology, and Thunderstorm Asthma researcher and PhD student Kira Hughes – have both been welcomed into Science and Technology Australia's 2024-2025 program.

On congratulating Dr Jaigidar, Head of Deakin's School of Information Technology Professor Trina Myers said:

'Fariha is an inspiring young researcher and role model for girls in stem. Her work in investigating cyber security solutions is groundbreaking.'

Capitalising on the growing interest in AI and the increasing need for cyber security expertise, as a Lecturer Dr Jaigirdar aims to address the 'critical need' to develop innovative solutions that safeguard not only technological systems but also the people who rely on them.

'I love to investigate and apply cybersecurity knowledge in various domains including Internet of Things (IoT), digital health, recordkeeping and Artificial Intelligence', said Dr Jaigirdar.

'I want people to understand the power of acceptability, diversity and inclusion. I want people to know STEM, to love STEM and to dream for STEM despite being who they are and what they believe.

Superstars of STEM would bring that platform for me to reach those above goals.'

Ms Hughes' Supervisor in the School of Life and Environmental Sciences Associate Professor Cenk Suphioglu said:

'Kira is one of my exemplary PhD students, who has been a Superstar in her STEM research focussing on Thunderstorm Asthma.

Kira has won numerous awards and Superstar in STEM is the ‘cherry on the top’, which is a well-deserved recognition of her impact in her research field and her numerous contributions as a Science Communicator.'

Chosen as a Superstar of STEM for her innovative approach to the topic, Ms Hughes says the program will allow her to learn from other STEM professionals, as well as inspire the next generation.

'I am immensely honoured to have been selected for the next Superstars cohort,' said Ms Hughes. 'Thunderstorm Asthma impacts my city of Melbourne frequently, but little is still known about this phenomenon - which is what I hope to uncover through my work.

Being able to effectively communicate complex topics to a wider audience through multiple venues like social media, public talks, or even comedy can be incredibly beneficial in bridging the gap between scientists and non-scientists.'

Through the program participants are equipped with advanced communication skills and then provided with opportunities to use these skills - in the media, on the stage and in speaking with decision makers.

Deakin University Science, Engineering and Built Environment Executive Dean Professor Nick Birbilis, said:

'The Superstars of STEM program is very prestigious. To have not one, but two Deakin researchers as part of the 60-strong cohort, is a wonderful achievement.

Both Dr Jaigirdar and Kira are the types of early career researchers Deakin loves to embrace. They are innovative and creative in communicating their research and make complex topics easy for the lay person to understand.

Dr Jaigirdar is passionate about improving cybersecurity and security awareness in our digital world.

As an early career researcher, Kira has already made an impact. She is tireless in her science communication and making sure that science is accessible across all platforms.'

In announcing the latest Superstars of STEM cohort, Minister Husic said:

'Australia’s brightest minds are a national asset coveted world-wide, with this year’s cohort of women and non-binary Superstars further underscoring Australia’s capability in STEM.

These Superstars show young Australians that STEM careers can take them anywhere: from studying cold-water species beneath Antarctic waters to gazing into outer space and everything in between.'

Science & Technology Australia is the nation's peak body representing more than 100,000 scientists and technologists.

Read Minister Husic’s full announcement here