I watch galaxies twinkling and help make science a welcoming environment for everyone

Astrophysicist and Science Communicator

Pronouns: She/They

 

Kat is a astrophysics post doctoral researcher using the novel technique of spectral variability to study active galactic nuclei and galaxy evolution. She has a PhD working with telescopes around Australia, in particular, using the Murchison Widefield Array, a radio telescope based in the remote outback of Western Australia.

She has worked extensively as a science communicator and activist for women in STEM including leading a national campaign, #IncludeHer, to correct high school courses to include a more diverse representation of scientists. Kat has also appeared as a host in the documentary “A Hidden Universe”, which aired on Channel 7 in 2022.

Kat is a proud bisexual and agender person and was diagnosed as an adult with ADHD. She is looking to help create safe spaces and welcoming environments for other LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse individuals in STEM.

Aspiring women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields need to be shown potential careers are achievable and given visible role models. However, students across Australia are often only given a small biased representation of scientists.

We aim to develop a program to bring role models into the classrooms for students across Australia. We wish to rectify the gender imbalance in STEM curricula around Australia and inspire students tobelieve that can pursue careers in STEM and be leaders in their fields.

IncludeHer aims to be a voice of the community and work with curricula developers to help produce the best possible science curriculum for all students.

You can support us by donating to our GoFundMe to help us establish the in school program.

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Contact

Have a question for me? Send it using the form below or contact me on Instagram, TikTok or email.

For media or research requests, please send me an email using the address below. Please include all important information.

Please note, I have ADHD and can often forget to reply to an email. If you are waiting for a response or it is important/time critical, please let me know or send a reminder email.

Email
astro.katross@gmail.com