Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown—Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault)— Charlestown electorate local Dr. Jessica Allen is an electrochemical engineer, a senior lecturer at the University of Newcastle and an Australian Research Council fellow—and now she has been recognised with a NSW Young Tall Poppy Science Award.

The Young Tall Poppy Science Awards are run by the Australian Institute of Policy and Science [AIPS] to honour up-and-coming scientists who combine their excellent research with a commitment to science communication.

Dr Allen leads the recently established Electrochemical Engineering Laboratory at the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources, where her research into energy technology development includes innovations in sustainable materials for batteries, carbon capture and use, hydrogen energy and zero emission manufacturing for green steel and aluminium.

But her influence extends far outside the halls of research and academia: in the face of climate change, her communications skills provide the community with leadership and refreshing hope.

Dr Allen accepted the award at a ceremony in Sydney on Wednesday 13 September. Congratulations to Dr Allen on this well-deserved award. It is fantastic to see brilliant women in STEM, communicating the importance of scientific research and advancement.