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
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“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
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- Science
- University
- Sustainability
Swinburne appoints Gordon Chakaodza as new Co-Director of FACET
Gordon Chakaodza has been appointed as Co-Director of the Franco-Australian Indo-Pacific Centre for Energy Transition (FACET), he brings extensive leadership experience in hydrogen and energy transition and will guide FACET’s next phase of growth
Tuesday 17 March 2026 -
- Technology
- Science
- Sustainability
- Engineering
Swinburne’s international collaborations driving meaningful impact
Swinburne is collaborating with international researchers to tackle global challenges in clean energy, sustainable materials and energy-efficient buildings.
Monday 16 March 2026 -
- Technology
- Science
- Sustainability
- Engineering
Swinburne to drive innovation in critical minerals research and industry
Swinburne will contribute its expertise to the Critical Metals for Critical Industries Cooperative Research Centre (CMCI CRC)
Thursday 12 March 2026 -
- Technology
- Science
- Sustainability
AI innovation protecting biodiversity wins global award for Swinburne researcher
Swinburne Sarawak researcher, Ts Dr Lee Sue Han has won a 2025 Inspiring Women in Science Award for her AI-driven biodiversity research, which uses artificial intelligence to identify plant species, protect ecosystems and support sustainable agriculture.
Friday 06 March 2026 -
- Technology
- Social Affairs
- Health
- Science
Driving meaningful progress in assisted living tech
Swinburne’s MedTechVic hub annual showcase brings together research, lived experience and practical innovation in assisted living technologies. This year's theme was ‘Real innovation, real lives’, highlighting the hub’s ongoing commitment to driving inclusive innovation.
Thursday 12 February 2026 -
- Design
- Technology
- Health
- Law
- Education
- Business
- Science
- University
- Engineering
Swinburne moves up in Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026
Swinburne University of Technology has performed strongly in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026, with two subjects moving up the ranks.
Thursday 22 January 2026
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.