Dr Helen McFarlane (2006)
Keeping her options open, Helen did a mix of subjects in Year 12: Art, Theatre Studies, English and all the Maths units. But she fell in love with studying planetary scale processes through a core earth science unit at university as part her Bachelor of Environmental Science.
“I finally found a path to combining analytical and critical thinking with creativity.”
A senior research scientist, geologist and group leader at the CSIRO, Helen leads multidisciplinary teams of researchers spanning a wide range of specialisations within earth science.
“We’re answering some of the biggest questions about our planet to address the most significant challenges of our time; how the earth has evolved, how mineral deposits form and where to look next.”
“A big part of our work is supporting the discovery of metals, like nickel and copper, needed to meet the demand of the global population in the energy transition. We have to find and develop the resources needed for future technology faster, and ideally, with less environmental impact.”
What Helen loves most about her work is the variety; the mix of applied science, fieldwork, analytical work and problem solving as well as shaping new research and working with highly diverse teams around the world.
“Earth science research reflects the complexity of the planet we live on. A lot of it is about challenging assumptions, testing new ideas and understanding systems that are far bigger, and longer lived, than any of us.”
Career pathway
Helen completed her PhD in Geology across multiple universities: Monash University and the University of Toulouse, France. “It gave me a taste for research, fieldwork and working across languages, and allowed me to split my time between Australia, France and West Africa.
After a few post-doctoral fellowships at The University of Western Australia looking at geological systems in Peru, Helen joined the CSIRO.
“I’ve been lucky enough to lead some great projects, including being part of the national MinEx Cooperative Research Centre, which has been a huge milestone. It’s all about improving exploration success in Australia’s underexplored regions.”
“I’ve also had the opportunity to present my research internationally at various conferences and, most recently, to the European Commission. It’s a great way to build partnerships and represent Australian science.”
Inspiring a new generation in STEM
Recently named a national Superstar of STEM*, Helen is passionate about “engaging with the public to help change how people see earth science”.
“One of the highlights of the program for me is visiting high schools to talk about different STEM career pathways and break down stereotypes.”
“I recently attended Science Meets Parliament in Canberra which gave me the chance to connect directly with policy makers and build stronger science-policy links. Good decisions need good evidence!”
Helen’s time at Grammar
“I had some wonderful teachers, including Mr Daniels (awesome Chemistry teacher), Mrs O'Shea, Mr Carroll, and Mr Mac way back in Year 6. I really loved Agriculture/Horticulture, and Mr Ford shaped my learning of applied systematic thinking. Hopefully Mr Klopak will be happy that I continued with my French!”
Two experiences stand out as having influenced Helen’s choices. The special Year 9 program in the Heinz Centre— where the focus for the year was on independence and sustainability—influenced her decision to study environmental science at university, and a Round Square international school exchange to South Africa in Year 10.
“Getting to live with another family in a different culture was incredibly special. The immersion, getting to travel to beautiful places and savouring unique experiences is something I continue to do today.”
*Superstars of STEM is an initiative by Science and Technology Australia that aims to tackle gender inequity in STEM by recognising some of Australia's best female and non-binary professionals working in the field.
Acknowledgement of Country
Ballarat and Queen’s Anglican Grammar School acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we learn, live and work, the Wadawurrung People, and recognises their continuing connection to the land and waterways. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend this to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
Commitment to Child Safety
Ballarat Grammar maintains a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of child abuse and actively implements measures to identify and manage any risks of harm to students within our school environment. The care, safety and wellbeing of children and young people are central and fundamental responsibilities of the School. We are firmly committed to fostering a child-safe culture that provides an environment where students are safe and feel safe, where their participation is valued, their views respected, and their voices heard in decisions that affect their lives. Ballarat Grammar values diversity and strictly prohibits any racist or discriminatory practices. All members of our school community share the responsibility to care for children and young people by promptly raising any concerns regarding their safety, promoting their wellbeing, and protecting them from all forms of harm or abuse.
