Swinburne's Chief Scientist
Professor Virginia Kilborn is Swinburne’s Chief Scientist, leading Swinburne’s scientific community as a champion of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and research across the university.
About Professor Virginia Kilborn
Professor Virginia Kilborn was appointed as Swinburne’s inaugural Chief Scientist in May 2021. She is a renowned radio astronomer who has led a highly successful career delivering research with impact within the local scientific community and on an international scale.
In what is believed to be the first appointment in an Australian university, Swinburne’s Chief Scientist provides leadership in science within and outside the University, driving scientific relationships and policy with government, industry and schools.
Aligned with Swinburne’s Horizon 2025 Strategic Plan where people and technology work together for a better world, Professor Kilborn is dedicated to fostering transformative science that creates genuine social and economic impact.
Key focus areas
Science research
Science education
Science policy and development
Science equity and diversity
-
“There has never been a more important time to be involved in science. As we step into the critical challenges of our nation and the world, the scientific voice must be more present.
I am proud to represent that voice and continue to spearhead the great work that fellow scientists are performing at Swinburne and more broadly.”
Professor Virginia Kilborn , Swinburne's Chief Scientist
Representing the scientific voice
After joining Swinburne’s Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing in 2003, Professor Kilborn has taught undergraduate and postgraduate astronomy and held multiple leadership roles as Chair of the Department of Physics and Astronomy, Dean of Science, and now as Swinburne’s inaugural Chief Scientist.
Leveraging her extensive astrophysics knowledge and proven leadership experience, Virginia has strategically worked to further education, research, policy and equity at Swinburne and throughout the scientific research community.
Professor Kilborn is an active member of the Australian Astronomical community, a past President of the Astronomical Society of Australia, and current Chair of the National Committee for Astronomy (NCA) with the Academy of Science.
She is also playing a leading role in advancing Swinburne’s science and technology focus and helping guide our learners, educators, and industry partners on the path to a digital, tech-rich future.
Swinburne's space technology capabilities
Learn more about space technology at Swinburne and how we are paving the way by combining our globally renowned capabilities in astrophysics, aerospace, aviation, engineering, advanced manufacturing, and digital technologies.
Science news
-
- Astronomy
- Science
Swinburne appoints new Director of Innovative Planet Research Institute
Leading geodesy expert, Professor Allison Kealy, has been appointed as the inaugural Director of Swinburne University's Innovative Planet Research Institute.
Monday 22 April 2024 -
- Astronomy
‘Beyond what’s possible’: new JWST observations unearth mysterious ancient galaxies
A paper published in Nature details findings using new data from the James Webb Space Telescope challenges our understanding of how galaxies form.
Thursday 15 February 2024 -
- Science
Quantum research sheds light on the mystery of high-temperature superconductivity
An international team of scientists have made a new discovery that may help to unlock the microscopic mystery of high-temperature superconductivity and address the world’s energy problems.
Thursday 08 February 2024 -
- Technology
- Science
- Sustainability
- Engineering
CSIRO and Swinburne invest in green steel and mineral processing to help industry get to net zero
CSIRO and Swinburne have established a new partnership to tackle global decarbonisation with innovative green steel and mineral processing research and development.
Thursday 01 February 2024 -
- Technology
- University
Innovative approaches to teaching and learning funded by Adobe
A total of 10 diverse projects dedicated to improving the digital literacy of our students have been awarded Adobe Innovation Grants and Curriculum Innovation Program.
Wednesday 31 January 2024 -
- Science
- Technology
- Astronomy
Biggest Swinburne space stories of 2023
The superstar team at Swinburne University of Technology were part of some of the biggest space moments of the year
Monday 15 January 2024
Explore science with Swinburne's Chief Scientist
For any strategic science-related advice, expert commentary or public engagement requests, please contact Professor Virginia Kilborn at vkilborn@swinburne.edu.au.