The Australian Academy of Science honors its esteemed Fellows, celebrating their remarkable achievements and contributions to science and society. But this month, we also mourn the loss of three brilliant minds, whose legacies will forever shape their fields.
Honoring the Fellows:
- Emeritus Professor Bruce Armstrong AC FAA receives the highest honor, appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia. A prestigious recognition for his invaluable work.
- Professor John Cannon AO FAA is appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia, acknowledging his influential research and leadership.
- Professor Mark Cassidy, a prominent figure, is appointed a Member of the Order of Australia, joining an elite group of scientists.
- Professor Graeme Clark AC FAA FTSE FRS shares the 2026 Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering, a testament to his groundbreaking work.
- Professor Michelle Haber AM FAA FAHMS is awarded the RSNSW James Cook Medal, celebrating her impact on medical research.
- Scientia Professor Xiaojing Hao FAA FTSE receives the RSNSW Edgeworth David Medal, a prestigious honor for her contributions to science.
- Professor Anne Kelso AC FAA FAHMS joins the ranks of Companions of the Order of Australia, a well-deserved recognition.
- Professor Max Lu AO FAA FTSE is elected an International Fellow, a prestigious global acknowledgment of his engineering expertise.
- Dr. Linda Richards AO FAA FAHMS is recognized at the Australia Day Gala, celebrating her scientific excellence.
- Scientia Professor Michelle Simmons AC FAA FTSE FRS is appointed a Companion, a prestigious honor for her leadership in quantum computing.
Remembering the Departed:
- Professor Emma Johnston AO FAA FTSE, a marine ecology pioneer, passed away in December 2025. Her research shaped policies and her leadership inspired many. A true champion of science and diversity, she will be deeply missed.
And here's where we reflect on her remarkable journey: Professor Johnston's influence extended beyond academia, as she held leadership roles in various organizations, driving change in higher education and research. Her impact on marine policy and STEM diversity is immeasurable.
- Professor Stephen Vickers Boyden AM FAA, an immunology and ecology luminary, passed away on the same day as Professor Johnston. His invention, the Boyden Chamber, revolutionized cell research. But his legacy extends beyond science; he co-founded the Nature and Society Forum, advocating for a deeper understanding of human-nature relationships.
A controversial figure to some, Professor Boyden's views on human ecology sparked debates. His book, Biorenaissance, published at 98, challenged conventional thinking. What's your take on his ideas? Do they hold relevance today?
- Dr. Michael (Mike) William McElhinny FAA, a pioneer in palaeomagnetism, passed away in February 2026. His work on plate tectonics and the supercontinent Gondwanaland was groundbreaking. Born in London, his global journey took him to South Africa, Zimbabwe, and finally, Australia, where he made his most significant contributions.
Dr. McElhinny's awards include the Academy's Mawson Medal and the American Geophysical Union's Fleming Medal, solidifying his impact on the field. His dedication to the Academy and his field is an inspiration to all.
As we celebrate the achievements of our Fellows, let's also remember these three extraordinary individuals who have left an indelible mark on science and society. Their contributions will continue to shape our world, and their legacies will endure.
