Dr. Jillian Petersen
Professor at the University of Vienna
Australian marine scientist, Professor of marine microbial ecology at the University of Vienna Born and raised in Brisbane.
Professor of marine microbial ecology at the University of Vienna Born and raised in Brisbane, Dr. Petersen initially managed a McDonald’s restaurant before studying for her Bachelor’s degree in microbiology in Queensland. After her Bachelor’s she took up a scholarship in Germany for an MSc and PhD in marine microbiology. When diving two kilometers to the sea floor in a submarine to collect samples for her research, she knew she wanted to dedicate her career to understanding and protecting marine life. As an international leader in fundamental research and STEM education, Dr. Petersen leads a team of researchers that investigate beneficial interactions between organisms in the sea (and on land). She has successfully run several large research projects and collaborates with researchers around the world. Her discoveries have been published in major scientific journals and highlighted in news stories. Dr. Petersen’s diverse leadership roles include board membership of basic science funding agencies, Editor-in-Chief of a society-run scientific journal, and educational program director. In all of these functions, she aims to promote fairness and transparency, and contribute to decision-making that promotes diversity, equity and inclusion in science. As the first female full professor in her faculty, she understands the challenges of being a minority voice, and aims to pave the way for others to realize their goals and aspirations regardless of the individual challenges they face, and whilst staying true to their own style.
