The International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) at the University of Western Australia has been recognised for its commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in astronomical sciences and technology with a Gold Pleiades Award from the Astronomical Society of Australia
The Pleiades Awards are given to astronomical organisations in Australia that take active steps to advance the careers of a diverse population and strive for sustained improvement in providing opportunities for under represented groups to achieve positions of seniority, influence and recognition.
The Gold Pleiades Award recognises “a truly outstanding sustained commitment to best practice in relation to the aims of the IDEA Chapter”. Prior attainment of both Bronze and Silver awards is a prerequisite for this award.
Associate Professor Elisabete da Cunha , who chairs ICRAR-UWA’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, said “We are deeply proud and honoured to have renewed our Gold Pleiades status in 2025. This recognition belongs to our entire community and reflects years of sustained commitment to equity and inclusion across all levels of ICRAR/UWA.”
“I would especially like to thank the members of our DEI committee, past and present, for their dedication to helping shape ICRAR/UWA into an inclusive, equitable, and joyful place to work. This award is both a celebration and a motivation to keep pushing forward,” Professor da Cunha said.
ICRAR Executive Director Professor Simon Ellingsen said, “This award recognises many years of work by staff and students at ICRAR and it is very gratifying to see UWA retain its Gold Pleiades status.
“An environment which celebrates and supports the contributions from all staff and students is what we’re aiming for and how we can best achieve this is an ongoing endeavour.”
Pleiades Awards are awarded for two calendar years from the 1st of January each year, and holders must re-apply for accreditation every two years. ICRAR has previously received Gold awards in 2023, 2021 and 2019, and until this year was the only organisation to be awarded gold.
