Sydney STEM Teachers Festival Speakers

Meet the inspiring line-up of speakers for the inaugural Sydney STEM Teachers Festival. These thought leaders and innovators are passionate about advancing STEM education and empowering educators with the tools and insights to transform their classrooms.

Dr Karl Kruszelnicki – University of Sydney

Dr Karl Kruszelnicki is a beloved science communicator whose passion for storytelling has made science accessible to millions. A qualified physicist, doctor, and engineer, Dr Karl is also a prolific author, with 48 books to his name. From hosting the weekly Shirtloads of Science podcast to running free school science Q&As, Dr Karl’s enthusiasm is infectious. As a patron of the Sleek Geeks Eureka Schools Prize, he inspires young scientists to communicate science with creativity and flair.

Professor Manjula Devi Sharma – University of Sydney

As Director of the STEM Teacher Enrichment Academy, Professor Manjula Sharma is devoted to empowering educators through collaboration and professional learning. Her work combines evidence-based practices and practical resources to enrich STEM teaching. A pioneer in engaging teachers to co-create classroom strategies, Manjula’s approach focuses on lasting change, equity, and innovation. Her passion for equipping teachers with tools to transform their practice ensures a cascade of positive outcomes for generations of students.

Professor Eddie Woo – University of Sydney

A renowned mathematics educator and advocate for STEM integration, Professor Eddie Woo is a global sensation with over 1.7 million YouTube subscribers and 150 million views. Known for making mathematics accessible and engaging, Eddie is dedicated to elevating teaching practices as the leader of the NSW Department of Education’s Mathematics Growth Team. As a Professor of Practice at the University of Sydney, he shares his expertise with future educators, inspiring them to see maths as an interconnected part of the STEM landscape.

Professor Scott Sleap – University of Sydney

Professor Scott Sleap is a driving force in Australian STEM education, championing equity and innovation in the classroom. With accolades like the Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Secondary Teaching, Scott leads initiatives such as the NSW Department of Education’s STEM Industry School Partnerships Program and the NSW Virtual STEM Academy. As a Professor of Practice in STEM at the University of Sydney, he focuses on empowering educators with cutting-edge teaching strategies and building transformative industry partnerships that enhance student outcomes.

Dr Catherine Ball – Scientific Futurist

A scientific futurist and thought leader, Dr Catherine Ball is celebrated for her work at the intersection of emerging technologies and humanitarian causes. From pioneering the use of drones in conservation to advising game-changing start-ups, Catherine demystifies emerging tech to inspire educators and students alike. Her global projects and engaging storytelling empower audiences to embrace technology as a force for good in education and beyond.

Dr Vanessa Pirotta – Wildlife Scientist

Dr Vanessa Pirotta merges cutting-edge technology with conservation science, from using drones to collect whale snot to developing AI tools to combat wildlife trafficking. A passionate communicator, Vanessa has been recognised as one of Science and Technology Australia’s Superstars of STEM and the Australian Financial Review’s Top 100 Women of Influence. As the lead scientist for Wild Sydney Harbour, she connects communities with marine life while promoting the fusion of Indigenous knowledge and Western science.