Who We Are

We are the Western Australian chapter of QueersinScience. 

QiS WA supports the LGBTQIA+ STEMM community to promote visibility, facilitate networking and advocate for diversity and inclusion among STEMM practitioners. We host local networking and social events, as well visibility and advocacy projects in collaboration with the national QiS body. 

We are based in Boorloo (Perth), our home on Whadjuk Noongar boodjar.  Please contact us if you are interested in joining QiS to build regional branches throughout our big state to make WA a world-leading community for Queer people in STEMM.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our Recent Events

31 Aug

Online

2022 Eureka Prize Award Ceremony

View event: 2022 Eureka Prize Award Ceremony
18 Nov

Online (Zoom and Gathertown)

LGBTQIA+ STEMM Day Symposium 2021

View event: LGBTQIA+ STEMM Day Symposium 2021
30 Jul

Online

Lockdown Trivia

View event: Lockdown Trivia

State Representatives

Jessica Stromberg

Research Scientist, CSIRO

I am a geologist who works at the interface of research and the minerals industry. I am passionate about increasing diversity and the representation of  untapped populations in the geosciences and broader STEMM community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kathleen Patrick

Science Communicator, Geologist & Educator

I am a passionate science communicator, geologist and educator and an advocate for STEM professionals. I believe a healthy environment and society require diversity, inclusion and innovation. Understanding and participation in STEM can create an engaged public who are empowered as the agents of change towards a more able, inclusive and healthy society for every member of our community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mark Pearce

Pronouns: He/Him

Research Group Leader, CSIRO

I am a geologist interested in how rocks deform and react with fluids from deep in the Earth to make ore deposits. I combine wandering around in outback Australia with looking at small pieces of rock with big microscopes. Geology requires diverse skills and approaches, and I believe that by making diverse scientists and engineers more visible we will show the world that our work is changing their lives.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blake Cavve

PhD student School of Psychological Science. University of Western Australia.

I am a cognitive science PhD student interested in why people make (seemingly) bizarre decisions.

I am also passionate about postgraduate access and training in the future of research; open science and science communication.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Elizabeth (Lizzie) Plotnek

Pronouns: they/she

Hydrogeologist, BHP

I am a hydrogeologist working in the mining industry, overseeing site dewatering and responsible water management in the Pilbara. I am passionate about intersectional inclusion and diversity, and co-lead the WA chapter of my employee LGBT+ ally network, Jasper. I believe that feeling safe to bring your whole self to work is key to unlocking potential in STEMM.

 

 

 

 

Darren Koppel

Pronouns: he/him

Early career researcher, Curtin University

Watching Bill Nye at an early age sparked a love of science that has led me to a career in environmental toxicology and chemistry. My research seeks to improve environmental sustainability by providing the information needed to protect our marine ecosystems from pollution. I care about making STEMM a more inclusive place for us all.

 

 

 

Contact Us

Find us on Facebook at QueersInScienceWA
Contact us at queersinsciencewa@gmail.com.