University of Melbourne science leaders honoured as Royal Society of Victoria 2026 Fellows

Front row: L-R: Professor Frances Separovic, Professor Moira O’Bryan , Associate Professor Jennifer Martin and Professor Sharon Lewin
Back row: The late Emma Johnston's husband, Sam Maresh. Front row: L-R: Professor Frances Separovic, Professor Moira O’Bryan , Associate Professor Jennifer Martin and Professor Sharon Lewin

The Royal Society of Victoria has announced its 2026 Fellows, including eight science leaders from the University of Melbourne.

The organisation’s highest honour recognises leaders in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM), as well as science communication, who have made distinguished contributions in Victoria, Australia and internationally.

The newly elected Fellows include:

Professor Elisabetta Barberio

Recognised for internationally distinguished contributions to particle physics, dark matter research, and scientific leadership in Australia.

The late Professor Emma Johnston AO FAA FTSE FRSN

Recognised posthumously for distinguished contributions to environmental science, scientific leadership, and public engagement with science in Australia.

Professor David Karoly FAA

Recognised for internationally distinguished contributions to climate science, environmental policy, and public understanding of climate change.

Professor Sharon Lewin AO FAA FRACP FAHMS

Recognised for internationally distinguished contributions to virology, infectious disease research, and pandemic preparedness.

Associate Professor Jennifer Martin 

Recognised for distinguished contributions to science communication, public engagement, and strengthening communication within the scientific community.

Professor Patrick McGorry AO

Recognised for transformative contributions to youth mental health research, clinical care, and mental health reform.

Professor Moira O’Bryan 

Recognised for distinguished contributions to reproductive biology, scientific leadership, and higher education in Australia.

Professor Frances Separovic AO FAA

Recognised for pioneering contributions to biophysical chemistry and distinguished leadership within the international scientific community.

The 2026 cohort of 21 Fellows were formally announced at a private ceremony held at the Royal Society of Victoria on 20 May 2026.

About the Royal Society of Victoria 

The RSV is a vibrant physical and online hub where Australians with an interest in STEMM can meet to energetically share insights, trade ideas and discuss solutions to society's important challenges.