Professor Karu Esselle and the MetaSteerers Team Secure Australia’s Top Science Honor
Introduction
In a momentous celebration of scientific excellence, the Australian Museum Eureka Prizes Awards 2023 bestowed their highest honor, the Department of Defence Eureka Prize for Outstanding Science in Safeguarding Australia, upon Professor Karu Esselle and his esteemed team known as MetaSteerers. This remarkable achievement underscores the crucial role that their groundbreaking research in antenna technology plays in enhancing the security and safety of Australia. The accolade reaffirms the exceptional contributions of Professor Karu Esselle and his team in the field of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM).
Hidden Heroes of Innovation
Professor Karu Esselle, of Sri Lankan origin, has long been a luminary in the field of antenna engineering. His illustrious career, spanning several decades, has been marked by pioneering research and innovation. As the leader of the MetaSteerers Team, Professor Esselle and his collaborators have created a low-profile antenna that offers unparalleled capabilities in large-scale data transmission and tracking suspicious radio activity across a wide bandwidth. Their ingenious invention is poised to revolutionize military operations, intelligence gathering, and national security.
A National Treasure
The Australian Museum Eureka Prizes are often regarded as the Oscars of Australian Science. Winning the Department of Defence Eureka Prize for Outstanding Science in Safeguarding Australia is a testament to the remarkable impact that Professor Esselle and his team have had on the nation’s security apparatus. Their innovation allows the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to maintain a stealthy presence while conducting critical data transmissions and tracking potentially threatening radio signals.
The MetaSteerers Team comprises individuals of exceptional talent and dedication, including Dr. Manik Attygalle, Dr. Khushboo Singh, and Dr. Dush Thalakotuna. These brilliant minds have worked tirelessly in collaboration with several esteemed institutions, including the University of Technology Sydney, Defence Science and Technology Group, and Macquarie University.
Associate Professor Noushin Nasiri: An Outstanding Finalist
In addition to celebrating the remarkable success of the MetaSteerers Team, we must also acknowledge the remarkable achievement of Associate Professor Noushin Nasiri. She was recognized as a finalist for the Outstanding Early Career Researcher award, a prestigious acknowledgment of her dedication and groundbreaking contributions to her field.
Professor Esselle’s Gratitude
Upon receiving the award, Professor Karu Esselle expressed his humility and gratitude. He remarked, “I’m humbled to receive this most prestigious science prize in Australia – a Eureka – considered the Oscars of Australian Science – as the Leader of the MetaSteerers Team, at the 2023 Eureka Prizes held in the Australian Museum last Wednesday. I accepted the Department of Defence ‘Eureka Prize for Outstanding Science in Safeguarding Australia’ from the Assistant Minister of Defence Hon Matt Thistlethwaite. Congratulations to the team, and thank you all who contributed this in many ways.”
Conclusion
The recognition of Professor Karu Esselle and the MetaSteerers Team with the Department of Defence Eureka Prize for Outstanding Science in Safeguarding Australia is a testament to the power of scientific innovation in safeguarding our nation’s security. Their achievement will undoubtedly inspire future generations of scientists and engineers to pursue excellence in the service of Australia and the world. We congratulate Professor Esselle, his team, and all the finalists and winners of the 2023 Eureka Prizes for their exceptional contributions to STEMM fields and their enduring impact on society.
