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Katherine Locock
Senior Research Scientist at CSIRO
Professional Background
Katherine Locock is a distinguished researcher and educator whose career spans academia and industry, emphasizing significant contributions to pharmacology and materials science. After completing her PhD at the prestigious University of Sydney in 2010, where she developed conformationally restricted GABA analogues as potential treatments for Alzheimer's disease and mood disorders under the mentorship of Prof Graham Johnston and A/Prof Robin Allan, Katherine's academic journey began as an associate lecturer in the Pharmacology Department at the university.
Drawing upon her solid academic foundation, Katherine transitioned to a postdoctoral fellowship at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) in Melbourne, specializing in the development of biologically active polymers through the innovative RAFT (Reversible Addition-Fragmentation chain Transfer) technology. Her expertise and dedication led her to secure a position as a research scientist in CSIRO Manufacturing in 2015. In an enriching extension of her career, she also served as a part-time advisor to Senator Kim Carr, the Shadow Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research in 2016, effectively bridging scientific research and policy-making.
Throughout her impressive career, Katherine has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to science, receiving accolades such as the CSIRO Staff Association Women in Science award in 2013, a Julius Career Development award in 2016, and the renowned AIPS Victorian Tall Poppy of the Year award in the same year. Her work not only advances the field of materials science but also promotes the importance of diversity and inclusion in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.
Education and Achievements
Katherine's educational achievements are notable, having obtained a Bachelor of Science with Honours (Class 1A and University Medal) in Pharmacology and Chemistry from the University of Sydney, where her commitment to academic excellence was evident from the outset. She further pursued her passion for medicinal chemistry by earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Pharmacology, solidifying her expertise in the field. Her early education at Macarthur Girls High provided a strong foundation, ultimately paving her way into higher education and research.
Katherine’s dedication extends beyond her professional achievements; she actively fosters opportunities for Indigenous Australians in STEM education. Taking an active role in creating partnerships with remote and regional Indigenous schools, she advocates for the development of new science programs aimed at engaging and inspiring Indigenous youth in the sciences.
Notable Contributions
Katherine's contributions to research and community engagement have been extensive. As a Senior Research Scientist at CSIRO, she has played a crucial role in various initiatives aimed at advancing materials science and engineering. Her involvement in the Manufacturing and Minerals Indigenous Engagement Committee at CSIRO showcases her commitment to the importance of inclusivity within scientific fields. Katherine's previous roles, such as an Elected Board Member of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) and a member of the Manufacturing Science Council at CSIRO, further reflect her leadership and influence within the scientific community.
In her capacity as a Researcher In Residence for Senator Kim Carr, Katherine has contributed valuable insights that link scientific innovation with governmental policy, thereby positively impacting the broader Australian community. Her insight and expertise have positioned her as a key figure in discussing the future direction of science and innovation in Australia.
In recognition of her sustained contributions to science, Katherine has also been an Elected Member of the Manufacturing Flagship Support Team at CSIRO and has served on the Social Licence Advisory Council at Chemistry Australia. These roles illustrate her commitment to advocating for responsible and sustainable scientific practices that benefit society.
Commitment to Education and Community Engagement
Katherine Locock is not only a brilliant scientist but also a passionate advocate for education and community engagement. Her dedication to providing opportunities and creating pathways for Indigenous Australians in STEM is commendable. By fostering relationships with Indigenous schools, she is helping to make science more accessible and encouraging young people to pursue careers in scientific fields.
With a career defined by innovation, collaboration, and advocacy, Katherine Locock continues to inspire future generations through her work at CSIRO and beyond. Her commitment to advancing scientific research while uplifting underrepresented communities reflects the impactful intersection of science and social responsibility, establishing her as a notable leader in her field.