Heart Foundation celebrates Jocelyne Mulangala as a Superstar of STEM

Media release: Wednesday 11 December 2024

Announcing Australia’s newest Superstar of STEM

The Heart Foundation is thrilled to announce that Jocelyne Mulangala, Program Manager for the Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network, has been named one of Australia’s new Superstars of STEM.

This prestigious recognition, announced today by the Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic MP, highlights Jocelyne’s exceptional contributions to heart disease research and her commitment to fostering diversity in STEM.

Reflecting on her recognition as a Superstar of STEM, Jocelyne said, "I am incredibly honoured to be named a Superstar of STEM. This recognition is not just for me, but for all the young people from diverse backgrounds who aspire to make a difference through science. I hope to inspire them to pursue their dreams and contribute to a healthier future for all."

Jocelyne’s journey in heart disease research began with a PhD in medicine from the University of Adelaide, where she focused on heart disease. Her postdoctoral experience in Sydney further deepened her understanding of the scientific challenges in this field. Now, at the Heart Foundation, she ensures that researchers have the resources and support needed to make breakthroughs that could save lives.

Transitioning from research to management, Jocelyne is dedicated to fostering diversity in STEM. Through her Instagram blog, science.withjocelyne, she connects with students from underrepresented communities, encouraging them to explore careers in science. She believes that everyone deserves a chance to shine in STEM and is committed to building a more inclusive and equitable scientific community.

Beyond her professional role, Jocelyne’s work is personal. She is deeply committed to making a difference in the fight against heart disease, whether through mentoring the next generation of scientists or supporting groundbreaking research. Her dedication is driven by a vision of a future where heart disease no longer takes such a heavy toll on our communities.

The Superstars of STEM program, an initiative of Science & Technology Australia funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources, selects 60 women and non-binary STEM experts through a highly competitive process. These Superstars will undergo intensive training and skills development over the next two years to become sought-after media commentators and role models for young people.

Science & Technology Australia Deputy CEO and Superstars of STEM Program Manager Dr. Sandra Gardam emphasised the program’s impact on public perceptions of scientists.

“This world-leading program is smashing stereotypes of what a scientist, technologist, engineer, or mathematician looks like,” she said.

“By becoming highly visible role models in the media, these Superstars of STEM are showing our diverse next generations of young people that STEM is for them.”

The Heart Foundation congratulates Jocelyne Mulangala on this remarkable achievement and looks forward to her continued contributions to heart disease research and her efforts to inspire the next generation of scientists.