We are delighted to congratulate Nicole Schieber on receiving the Research Infrastructure Queensland Alliance (RIQA) Emerging Leaders Award, presented during the dinner event at the CORES 2026 Conference.
Nicole was recognised for her outstanding leadership and contribution to research infrastructure, both within CMM and across the broader research community.
As highlighted during the award presentation:
“Nicole has combined technical excellence with calm and inclusive leadership during a period of significant organisational change at CMM. She stepped beyond formal responsibilities to maintain operational continuity, coordinate staff, and support strategic decision making. She redesigned transmission electron microscopy training, introducing clearer pathways and milestones, and increased user retention from approximately 65% to 85%. Nicole also established a targeted ultra-microtomy workflow that made CMM the first Australian facility to routinely offer this specialised capability. Beyond UQ, she strengthens national capability as President of the Volume Imaging Australia Special Interest Group through symposia, expert webinars, and mentoring. Her leadership enables others to gain confidence, independence, and professional networks.”
We also learned from Professor Paul Bonnington that Nicole was nominated for this award by our late Director Professor Roger Wepf shortly before he entered palliative care. This makes the recognition especially meaningful.
During the awards event, Professor Stephen Blanksby, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Infrastructure) at the Queensland University of Technology, spoke in memory of Roger and acknowledged his significant contribution to the advancement of research infrastructure across Queensland.
Nicole's award is a wonderful reflection of her dedication, expertise, and leadership, and we are proud to see her achievements recognised at the state level!
Congratulations Nicole on this well-deserved achievement!
