STEM Profile: Virginia Kilborn

Virginia Kilborn

Astronomer and Chief Scientist at Swinburne University of Technology

Professor Virginia Kilborn is Swinburne University of Technology’s Chief Scientist, providing strategic leadership across research, innovation, and external engagement. She works with academia, industry, and government to advance scientific excellence, collaboration, equity and diversity and impact.

City/town: Hawthorn

State: VIC

STEMM sectors: Data/AI, Education, Engineering, Environment, Research, Science, Technology

Open to being contacted about the following volunteer roles: Board positions, Mentoring others, New job opportunities, Speaking at professional events/panels, Speaking at schools

Guiding principle: Working to further science education, policy, research, industry impact and equity and diversity. Passionate about space and astrophysics, science outreach, and creating opportunities for others.

Areas of expertise: astrophysics, space, research, diversity, science

Contact Virginia Kilborn

Q&A

What’s something about your field that most people misunderstand or overlook?

Many people think that astronomy is all about looking at pretty pictures – but it’s so much more! To understand how the Universe works we bring together mathematics, physics, simulations and observations and many decades of theory and discovery to explain the stars, galaxies & other objects we see.

What’s a small, everyday habit or mindset that has made a big difference in how you approach your work?

I start each day thinking “what’s the one thing I really need to do today” and I try and do that first! That way I know I’m doing the most important thing before I get caught up the rest of the day’s activities.

What is the thing you enjoy most about your role?

I love meeting new people and helping others to achieve their goals. There is such interesting work happening in STEM in Australia, and I enjoy learning about the work people are doing and the impact they are making.

What drew you to your field in the first place?

I grew up just outside of Ballarat and marvelled at the dark night sky there with its bright stars and Milky Way. I have a love of nature and the Australian bush – its sounds, smells and sights, and am happiest out in the country where I can admire flora and fauna during the day, and stars at night.