Six University of Melbourne academics recognised as ‘Victorian Young Tall Poppies’

Headshots of six university academics

Six University of Melbourne academics have been named 'Young Tall Poppies'

Six academics from across the University were celebrated as award winners in the 2025 Young Tall Poppy awards, with one being named ‘Victorian Young Tall Poppy of the Year.’

The Australian Institute of Policy and Science (AIPS) presents the Young Tall Poppy Awards to celebrate emerging scientists who excel in research, while promoting public understanding of science and appreciation of its importance to society.

Professor Ada Cheung from the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences was named Victorian Young Tall Poppy of the Year at the AIPS Awards Night on 15 October, in recognition of her research, which aims to improve health outcomes for transgender and gender-diverse people.

The 2025 University of Melbourne winners are:

  • Professor Ada Cheung (Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences): For research on improving health and wellbeing outcomes for transgender and gender-diverse people.
  • A/Prof Sarah Erfani (Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology): For research on AI safety assurance.
  • Dr Louise La Sala (Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences): For research on the impacts of social media on youth mental health.
  • Dr Rhea Longley (Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences): For research on the elimination and targeted treatment of malaria.
  • Dr Vera Korasidis (Faculty of Science): For research on fossil pollen and ancient ecosystems to understand past climates and biodiversity change.
  • Dr Iliana Medina Guzman (Faculty of Science): For research on the evolution of animal behaviour and how species adapt to their environments.