Dr Deidre Tronson OAM says her career was a result of an internal need “to keep up with science” from a young age.

“And sharing the knowledge of it with others is fun,” she says.

To her surprise, Deidre found she enjoyed teaching at University, after starting her career in Chemistry research. This eventually led to her position as a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Science and Technology at Western Sydney University, as well as co-supervisor for post-graduate students in Natural Products Research.

She was also a volunteer at the Science in Schools Scheme, and is a fellow of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute. 

While at Western Sydney University, she was instrumental in developing science activities for high school students, and since her retirement has volunteered for years as a scientist at Camden Public School, mentoring students and undertaking individual science projects. 

Deidre has authored general science articles, peer-reviewed science educational journals at Western Sydney University, and was invited to co-author two chapters in HSC textbooks. 

For her work, Deidre was awarded the Medal of the Order for service to science education. 

“I have been very fortunate to have had a career where I got paid for my hobby, and now I get to continue that hobby, that fun, that joy, that passion, by encouraging young people to think about the world around them and hopefully understand its workings in its many wonderful ways,” she says. 

Deidre says while she was “gobsmacked” when she found out about her recognition, she has big hopes for its impact. 

“Although it’s a wonderful recognition of my efforts, to me it is meaningful for the recognition it gives to science and its importance in our society,” she explains. 

“Hopefully it is one more little step in promoting and recognising the amazing science culture in this country that is rarely shouted from the rooftops.

“Personally, this award is a lovely testament to my contribution to helping young people and the general public to engage with science in many different ways; something I have been privileged to do for 50 years.”