Melanie Johnston-Hollitt

Professor Melanie Johnston-Hollitt is a trailblazing radio astronomer at the intersection of astrophysics, computer science, and big data. As Director of the Curtin Institute for Data Science and the Australian Space Data Analysis Facility, she leads a dynamic, multidisciplinary team of data scientists and software developers that partners with SMEs and researchers to solve cutting-edge, industry-relevant challenges. A visionary leader, Melanie was a founding board member of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) and has held pivotal roles as Chair and Director of the WA-based Murchison Widefield Array telescope. With over $50 million in funding, 300+ research publications, and a legacy of mentoring more than 50 students and early-career researchers, she continues to push the boundaries of technology and innovation.