Associate Professor Anina Rich from the Department of Cognitive Science has recently returned from Canada after being selected to join the Global Young Academy (GYA), for her commitment to service and scientific excellence.

“The GYA is an international community of young scientists who unite to address topics of global importance, with a focus on science and policy, education and outreach, and the research environment,” explained Associate Professor Rich.

With support from the ARC Centre for Excellence in Cognition and its Disorders (CCD), the Faculty of Human Sciences and Macquarie, Associate Professor Rich was able to attend her first GYA Annual General Meeting.

“Being able to cover the costs of my own travel meant the GYA could fund other researchers travelling from developing countries,” said Associate Professor Rich.

Associate Professor Rich says the opportunity afforded her the chance to engage with different working groups and propose new projects.

“The projects range from specific studies, for example, documenting the opportunities and challenges of young scientists across the world, to reports that influence policy, such as identifying factors that contribute to innovation in research in different regions,” she said.

Although there were tangible reports and papers, Associate Professor Rich believes the less tangible outcomes of the GYA may be the most important.

“The GYA models how people with very different backgrounds and opinions can work together effectively and productively,” she said. “It was inspiring to be part of this and I look forward to learning a lot over the next five years of my term.”

Learn more
All staff are welcome to share in Associate Professor Rich’s recent experience at a bring-your-own lunch session, as part of the CCD sponsored Women in Science Outreach Program.

When: Wednesday 17 June
Time: 12.30pm
Where: Level 3 Recreation Room, Australian Hearing Hub

Registration is not required.