Our thanks to @thekidsau.bsky.social for the image of Fiona.

C ombined with her extensive track record of science communication, mentorship and outreach, Professor Johnston was an exceptional role model and science champion. She will be deeply missed by us all.

The Academy offers our sincerest condolences to her family and colleagues.

Science and Technology Australia, CSIRO, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and the Sydney Institute for Marine Science.

Professor Johnston was also a highly influential leader, advocate and voice for Australian higher education, science and research, and diversity in STEM. She held leadership roles at the University of Melbourne, University of Sydney and UNSW, as well as at

and her pioneering research which has been widely adopted into policy by governments in Australia and overseas.

Spark your curiosity, make a fresh discovery or dive into a new world this summer. View the full list www.science.org.au/videos-and-p...

“In an increasingly complex and contested world, ensuring that science continues to serve all Australians is critical,” said Academy President Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC.

Want more book picks from Australia's leading scientists? Check out our Fellows' 2025 reading list: https://www.science.org.au/videos-and-publications/publications/summer-reading-recommendations-from-our-fellows/fellows-reading-and-listening-list-2025

See more recommendations from Australia's top scientists in our annual reading and listening list: https://bit.ly/4pt7Xgm

His innovative methods for separating plant cells and growing fruit tissue in vitro, published in Nature in 1958, laid the foundation for decades of advances in plant science. Read more: www.science.org.au/profile/stua...

You can listen to Sam's interview here: www.abc.net.au/listen/progr...