Education and Outreach
The Education and Outreach Committee aims to enhance engagement, communication, and collaboration of the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Optical Microcombs for Breakthrough Science (COMBS).
Our six areas of focus
Education-related Groups
Focus on improving science education at the secondary level by addressing the perception of science as dull and difficult, providing teachers with better resources and training, and showcasing the relevance of current research in classrooms.
Undergraduate Student Outreach
Address challenges such as career decision-making, financial pressures, and lack of awareness about career opportunities.
PhD/Early-Career Researcher Education and Outreach
Support the career development of our PhD students and early-career researchers (ECRs) by providing scientific leadership training, professional skills development, and opportunities for collaboration with industry
Media Engagement
Enhance visibility and promote COMBS research through compelling storytelling and collaboration with media outlets.
Government Relations
Engage with policymakers to raise awareness about COMBS research, demonstrate its potential societal and economic benefits, and secure long-term funding and support.
Public Outreach
Create accessible and engaging science communication materials to reach a broader audience and build trust. Utilise explainer videos, social media campaigns, and participation in public events like science festivals.
Resources and Materials
COMBS mail
Got a question on your mind? Ask a COMBS Researcher!
Educational resource
Interested in learning more about microcombs? Download our poster which is aimed at year 7-9 students.
External newsletter
Curious about microcombs, new collaborations, or COMBS updates? Subscribe to our quarterly newsletter, The Resonator.
YouTube
Watch our latest videos to learn more about microcombs, our research highlights and life at COMBS!
Our Education and Outreach Committee
Professor (Carel) Martijn de Sterke
Martijn is a theoretical physicist with interests in nonlinear optics, lasers, and theoretical mechanics.
Professor Irina Kabakova
Irina is an optical physicist exploring advanced imaging techniques for modern biomedical optics, biology and bioengineering.
Professor Michael Murphy
Michael is an astrophysicist and helped to develop astrocombs to help measure tiny effects in astronomical objects of potentially fundamental importance for physics.
Professor Kishan Dholakia
Kishan is a biophotonics specialist with an interest in fundamental photonics and interdisciplinary science.
Professor David Lancaster
David is a laser researcher and inventor who is interested in sensing, defence and advanced manufacturing applications.
Professor Amanda Berry
Amanda is a Professor in STEM Education, a passionate advocate for engaging the interest of, participation in, and success of all young people in STEM fields.
Associate Professor Jian Zhen Ou
Jianzhen is a specialist in developing nanomaterials and devising instruments for more accurate biological, ions, and gas sensing.
Ruth Waterman
Ruth coordinates the research, training and development activities, and the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee at the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Optical Microcombs for Breakthrough Science (COMBS).
Ms Prina Bhugwan
Prina is a PhD Student at RMIT University. She is conducting a PhD investigating how frontier, COMBS science can be integrated into classrooms through culturally responsive pedagogy.
Rachael Vorwerk
Rachael manages the science communication, internal communications, branding, education and outreach at the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Optical Microcombs for Breakthrough Science (COMBS).
Featured case studies
Building trust between scientists and policymakers for evidence-based decision making
As a researcher, how do you help politicians create good policy, make good decisions and invest effectively in the future of our nation? At COMBS, we’re equipping our members with the skills to become trusted advisors, guiding evidence-based policies for all Australians.
Interested in engaging with us at COMBS?