In September, twelve emerging science communicators took to the FameLab Australia stage, sharing their research in a way that informed, inspired, and resonated, without ever “dumbing it down” for audience members. Armed with nothing more than their content, clarity, charisma, and a single prop, each finalist delivered a compelling three-minute presentation that made science accessible and emotionally engaging.
Their journey to the stage began months earlier with intensive training delivered by Comm-it, FameLab Australia’s National Training Partner. Led by award-winning science communicator Emma Donnelly, Comm-it is a leading science communication consultancy with a national footprint. Emma and her team, comprising of experienced science journalists, educators, writers, and marketing professionals, deliver bespoke training programs that empower researchers to connect with diverse audiences.
Comm-it’s clients include CSIRO, Inspiring Australia, major universities, CRCs, start-ups, and of course, FameLab. Their work helps translate complex science into stories that spark curiosity and drive impact.
FameLab is the world’s largest public-facing science communication training program and competition. In Australia, its mission is to foster excellence in science communication among early career STEM researchers across academia and industry. Over the years, FameLab has helped launch the careers of many of Australia’s leading science communicators, with alumni moving into prominent roles in media, education, and public engagement.
“It was a very wonderful experience; I learnt a lot on communication skills. It was a very friendly and motivational environment, everyone was treated with respect, the training given was top notch.” Says 2025 finalists.
“I gained so many new skills, made new friendships and challenged myself in a new way.” Another 2025 finalist said.
As part of the FameLab program, all applicants receive an introductory 90-minute online workshop to build foundational communication skills. Semi-finalists then take part in an intensive two-day training program designed to refine their storytelling and presentation techniques ahead of the national competition.
In 2025, participants from every state and territory competed, highlighting the program’s truly national reach. This year’s winner is Tammy Lee, an embryologist from the University of Western Australia. The runners-up were Kenya Fernandez, a microbiologist from the University of Sydney, and Caitlin Dudley, a plant scientist with the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation.
FameLab Australia continues to champion the next generation of science communicators - equipping researchers with the tools to make their science heard, understood, and remembered.
