On 20 April, the AIP NSW Branch proudly hosted its annual Physics Research Poster Presentation Network Event, bringing together Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students from across New South Wales and the ACT to showcase the breadth and depth of their work. The event provided a dynamic platform for emerging researchers to present projects spanning the full research lifecycle—from early-stage thesis proposals to advanced, published investigations—while fostering valuable connections between academia and industry.

The standard of presentations was exceptional, reflecting both the innovation and rigour of contemporary physics research. Among the award recipients, PhD candidate Farrel Separgo (University of Technology Sydney) was recognised for his outstanding poster, Heterogeneity of Upconversion Bioconjugates Revealed by Single Nanoparticle Spectroscopy, while Masters student Claudia Fava (Macquarie University) received top honours for her compelling work, Secrets in Stardust: Unravelling the Origin of Chemical Diversity in Evolved Stars.

These achievements, alongside those of other recipients, underscore the remarkable talent and potential of the next generation of physicists. The event not only celebrated research excellence but also highlighted the critical importance of supporting early-career researchers and strengthening collaborative networks across institutions. It stands as a testament to the vibrancy and future promise of the physics community in New South Wales.

Generous sponsors of the awards were the Sydney Quantum Academy ($1000 PhD  first prize), Boson Engineering ($500 PhD second prize) and Diraq ($1000 Masters prize).

Left: Farrel Separgo (University of Technology Sydney), Right: Claudia Fava (Macquarie University)