Dr Pablo García-Díaz, Research Fellow at The University of Aberdeen, has been awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award by the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions in recognition of the impact his research on invasive alien species has had in Australia, Europe and South America.
Dr Pablo García-Díaz has won the Centre’s inaugural Distinguished Alumni Award. Supplied.
Mr Bruce Christie, Chair of Board of the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions announced the winner of the inaugural award at a function following a gathering of the next generation of researchers working to find solutions to Australia’s invasive species held at the Academy of Science’s Shine Dome in Canberra on 16 September 2022.
The Distinguished Alumni Award recognises scientists and researchers who have completed the Centre’s Balanced Researcher Program and have had a significant impact on their profession or field of expertise, have demonstrated their commitment to reducing the impact of invasive species in Australia, and their ongoing involvement with the Centre and its members.
Mr Andreas Glanznig, Chief Executive of the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions, said that Dr García-Díaz had made significant contributions to the ecological understanding and on-ground management of invasive alien species along the biosecurity continuum, from prevention to early detection to the long-term management of invasive species.
“Dr García-Díaz exemplifies the qualities we are looking for in our researchers and science trained decision makers who will play a critical role in future-proofing Australia’s biosecurity system,” said Mr Glanznig.
Associate Professor Phill Cassey from the University of Adelaide accepted the Distinguished Alumni Award on Dr García-Díaz’ behalf.
“I am so pleased that Pablo has been recognised by the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions with the inaugural Distinguished Alumni Award.
“As Pablo’s PhD supervisor I had a front row seat to watch his professional development and can genuinely say that the Centre’s Balanced Researcher Program was instrumental in setting him on his path to success — success that has not only benefitted Australia, but also the many countries where his research has influenced management and policy actions, including Australia, Aotearoa-New Zealand, the UK, Brazil, Argentina and Chile”, said Associate Professor Cassey.
Also recognised at the award ceremony with Leadership and Development Bursaries were three participants of the Centre’s Balanced Researcher Program: PhD students Katherine Hill (The University of Adelaide), Elena Smertina (University of Canberra) and Postdoctoral Researcher Dr Adam Toomes (The University of Adelaide).
Balanced Researchers recognised at awards ceremony — Elena Smertina (left), Katherine Hill (centre left), Dr Adam Toomes (centre right) — with Associate Professor Phill Cassey who accepted the Distinguished Alumni Award on behalf of Dr Pablo García-Díaz (right). Credit: Frank Exon.
The Leadership and Development Bursaries were provided by the Invasive Species Solutions Trust and will help support the three recipients as they take the next steps in their professional journeys.