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Winner of the ‘Brilliant People – Collaborative Culture Leadership’ Award, Professor Sarah Zhang (right) pictured with Defence Chief Scientist, Professor Tanya Monro.
Western Sydney University congratulates Professor Sarah Zhang on winning the Brilliant People – Collaborative Culture Leadership Award at the Australian Government Department of Defence ‘More, together’ Awards for Excellence.
The award, presented by Australia’s Defence Chief Scientist, Professor Tanya Monro, recognises high-performing leaders who actively contribute to shaping the science and technology environment and empowers others to deliver world-class research outcomes for the Australian Defence Force.
Professor Sarah Zhang from the University’s School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment was recognised as a high achieving researcher and leader in the field of composite materials and structures with a focus on defence applications addressing critical defence needs through innovative research.
The award recognised Professor Zhang’s exemplary performance leading a team of over 20 people from six universities and six industry partners to deliver innovative research that has significantly impacted the Defence industry.
Accepting the award at the inaugural Australian Defence Science, Technology and Research Summit, Professor Zhang said it was an honour to be acknowledged for leading a large research team to develop and deliver innovative and impactful research.
“Our team has developed a high-performance nanocomposite adhesive that has significant impacts on Australia’s defence assets. This adhesive can improve the reliability and durability of structural joints and advanced the manufacturing of composites,” said Professor Zhang.
“We know the ability to rapidly repair damaged aircraft is vital, and our nanocomposite is not only more adaptable than current options, but also stronger.”
“This means our material could enhance defence platform resilience, reduce costs, increase safety and increase the readiness and responsiveness of battle-ready platforms,” she said.
Receiving funding support of $1.1 million from the Department of Defence, the research led by Professor Zhang was cited as an exemplary funding success story by The Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Assistant Minister for Defence, as part of his address to the ADSTAR Summit Awards ceremony.
“I wish to thank our research team for their trust in my leadership and acknowledge the excellent teamwork and support from all our researchers and industry partners,” said Professor Zhang.
“In particular, I want to acknowledge the great support I received from my long-term research partner Dr John Wang from DST Group, and Professor Richard Yang from Western.”
The Department of Defence ‘More, together’ Awards for Excellence 2022 was held at the International Convention Centre, Sydney, and attended by over 600 delegates from research and universities, government, and defence industry stakeholders.
ENDS
7 September 2022
Danielle Aiken, Media Officer
Photos provided by Defence Science and Technology Group
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