Born: 1979
Biography:
Lisa Harvey-Smith (born 1979) is a British-Australian astrophysicist, Australia’s Women in STEM Ambassador, and a Professor of Practice in Science Communication at the University of NSW. Her research interests span a wide range of topics in astrophysics, including the origin and evolution of cosmic magnetism, supernova remnants, the interstellar medium, massive star formation, and astrophysical masers.
Harvey-Smith began her academic journey at Finchingfield Primary School, where her mother served as the headteacher. She later pursued home education from 1991 to 1996 before continuing her studies at Braintree College. In 2002, Harvey-Smith obtained a Master of Physics degree with Honours, majoring in astronomy and astrophysics, from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. She went on to earn her PhD in Radio Astronomy at Jodrell Bank Observatory from the University of Manchester in 2005 under the supervision of R. J. Cohen.
Throughout her career, Harvey-Smith has made significant contributions to gender equity in STEM fields. Since 2018, she has served as the Australian Government Women in STEM Ambassador, playing a pivotal role in advocating for the increased participation of girls and women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In her position, Harvey-Smith spearheads the government’s efforts to break down barriers and create more inclusive opportunities for women in STEM. Her dedication to this cause led to her reappointment as the Women in STEM Ambassador in September 2020.
From 2012 to 2015, Harvey-Smith served as the Chair of the Women in Astronomy Chapter of the Astronomical Society of Australia. During her tenure, she oversaw the launch of a national gender equity scheme called The Pleiades Awards, aimed at promoting equality and recognition in the field of astronomy.
In the field of astrophysics, Harvey-Smith has established herself as an accomplished researcher with over 50 peer-reviewed scientific papers. Her work focuses on various aspects of the birth and death of stars, cosmic magnetic fields, and supermassive black holes. Alongside her research, she holds the position of Professor of Practice in Science Communication at the University of New South Wales, where she shares her knowledge and passion for astrophysics with the next generation of scientists.
Harvey-Smith’s involvement in major astronomical projects has also been significant. In August 2012, she was appointed as the Project Scientist for the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) telescope at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). Prior to this, she played a crucial role in Australia and New Zealand’s bid to host the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), a groundbreaking international radio telescope project. This effort resulted in the joint construction of the SKA in both Australia and Southern Africa. Harvey-Smith also led the development of the ASKAP Early Science Program, which commenced in 2015.
Notably, Harvey-Smith has held various leadership positions within the Australian Telescope National Facility. From 2009 to 2011, she served as the Chair of the Telescope Time Assignment Committee, contributing to the allocation of telescope time for astronomical observations. These experiences have solidified her reputation as a respected figure in the field of astrophysics and radio astronomy.
Awards:
– The Pleiades Awards (Chair of the Women in Astronomy Chapter of the Astronomical Society of Australia)