CSIRO Showcase & Networking Event

CSIRO Showcase & Networking Event

Join us for an evening of science and technology engagement!

Theme: The Digital Future

For over 100 years, Commonwealth Scientific Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) - Australia's national science agency has invented life-changing technologies, like fast and efficient WiFi. These world-changing breakthroughs underpin the ongoing digital transformation that shapes all of our lives. Hear first-hand from our speakers about how the latest digital innovation is transforming Australia's workplaces, our biosecurity, and food production. Learn from our panelists about how they've embraced digital technologies throughout their career journeys - and what our digital future might hold.

Meet The Speakers

Topic: Using AI and big data to gain insight into labour market disruptions

Dr Claire Mason leads the Technology and Work team in CSIRO’s Data61 and the skills project within CSIRO’s Collaborative Intelligence Future Science Platform. The team use Artificial Intelligence to derive insights from big datasets regarding the way in which new technologies are affecting demand for workers and skills. They also explore how these data can be used to support informed career decisions in response to technological disruption. Claire’s research is widely published in both peer reviewed journals and mainstream media outlets.

Topic: Unveiling the Unseen: Advancements in Automated Pest Detection Technologies for Fresh Fruits

Dr. Maryam Yazdani, an accomplished Entomologist and Applied Research Scientist (RS), excels in advancing our understanding of insect pest biology and ecology in agriculture. Specializing in cost-effective, eco-conscious pest management, she adeptly bridges the gap between innovative ideas and commercial products. Joining CSIRO in 2021, Maryam established the "Pest Detection & Management Technologies" in March 2022, introducing new capabilities to the Biosecurity in H&B Business Unit.

Pioneering research, she employs X-ray, optical scanning, electrochemical sensors, and e-DNA techniques to detect pest infestations in fresh produce. Maryam's groundbreaking work has resulted in several patents for innovation.

Topic: Digital skills up Science in Agriculture

Ms Loretta Clancy started her working life as a Receptionist after leaving School and attending Secretarial School, moved into accounting work before studying for a Bachelor Business, Accounting. Loretta then spent many years writing Legal Accounting software before joining CSIRO as a database developer. Loretta spent 10 years in Narrabri writing web-based decision support software for the Cotton Industry and completed her Master’s in Information Technology. 7 years ago, Loretta moved back to Brisbane, attended CSIRO’s DataSchool, and has been involved in database management, web site & dashboard development, simulation modelling, automation services, and data wrangling for Agriculture & Food ever since.

Following the presentations there will be a panel moderated by Dr Alison Rice and made up of inspiring women discussing their career journey and how embracing digital technology has shaped their research and career.

Meet your Moderator

Dr Alison Rice, Team Leader & Business Development Manager, Environment, CSIRO

Alison has extensive experience as a researcher, research development manager and business development manager in the medical research & University sectors, Queensland government and CSIRO. Alison is a passionate advocate for women in science, was a Board member and Past President of Women in Technology

Meet The Panel

Dr Janet Fox leads Digital Health Business Development for the Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australia’s nation science research agency. With more than 15 years' experience in research translation, commercialisation, licensing, strategic partnering and engagement she is passionate about the development and implementation of digital technologies and how they are transforming the delivery of health services across the globe.

Professor Michelle Colgrave is the Deputy Director for Impact leading teams of scientists who are delivering outcomes to support a healthy future for the Australian agrifood sector, through the translation and commercialisation of sustainable food systems research. As former leader of CSIRO’s Future Protein Mission, Michelle seeks to promote open and informed discussion about what lays ahead for our agrifood systems.

Dr Dana Bradford has a BSc Neuroscience/Psychology, Hons Neuroscience, PhD Neuroscience, Dip Pos Pysc & Wellbeing, and over 10 years in social, biological and technological research experience. Her project work with the Australian e-Health Research Centre (AEHRC) at CSIRO has predominantly centred on digital services for equitable healthcare, developing innovative and effective technologies to enhance health autonomy. 

And completing the panel: Ms Wilma James

To round off the evening there will be a networking opportunity with canapes.