Professional Staff Awards

Alasdair has made an exceptional impact across the School of Chemistry, far beyond his role as a Senior Technical Officer. He has led improvements in iLab systems, supported grant bids, and played a key role in onboarding new staff. His strategic thinking, leadership, and collaborative approach have enhanced space utilisation and lab planning, including a new Chromatography/Separations lab. Alasdair’s dedication, problem-solving mindset, and tireless support make him an invaluable contributor to the School’s research and operational success.

As a Senior Research and Administration Officer, Nicole delivers exceptional support in HDR and research administration, consistently going above and beyond her role. She is widely praised by students for her problem-solving, kindness, and dedication, often cited in thesis acknowledgements. Nicole’s strategic management of grants, donor relations, and urgent student needs has significantly enhanced the School’s research culture. Her 30+ years of experience, proactive approach, and unwavering support make her an indispensable and deeply valued member of the School of Biological Sciences.

Rachelle has made an exceptional impact on lab operations and safety across the School and Monash University as a Senior Technical Officer. Her innovations include best-practice lab signage, a temporary dark lab for light-sensitive research, and chemical-resistant waste carriers for safer transport. Rachelle maintains key analytical instruments and ensures high standards of reliability and support. Her proactive, solutions-focused approach has improved lab functionality, safety, and inclusivity, making her a trusted and invaluable member of the technical team.

Angela Firth, Anna Quinn, Andy Cianchi, Genie Fleming

The SAEF Program Team has delivered exceptional support for Antarctic research through the Monash-led initiative. In 2024–25, they enabled 215 field days across 14 expeditions and coordinated a major five-day conference with over 100 attendees. Their expertise in logistics, compliance, communications, and inclusive fieldwork has elevated SAEF’s national and international reputation. The team’s strategic thinking, operational excellence, and commitment to equity and collaboration make them a model of professional impact and innovation.

Faculty Office members: Dr Anh Chau, Udeshika Wijewardena, Jean-Francois Ravat, Michaela Gabbe, Namrata Sharma
School member: Tracy McGregor, School of Chemistry

The team successfully delivered the Faculty’s first Professional Staff Development Day, creating an engaging and inclusive program from scratch. With no existing model, they designed sessions, managed logistics, and facilitated interactions, ensuring relevance across diverse roles. Their efforts led to high attendance and overwhelmingly positive feedback. The team continues to lead further development initiatives, demonstrating outstanding collaboration, strategic thinking, and commitment to professional growth within the Faculty.