Three of Australia’s leading physicists have been elected as AIP Honorary Fellows for their exceptional contributions to physics research and leadership. This lifetime honour is the highest the AIP bestows. The new Honorary Fellows are:

Professor Anthony Thomas AC for his research in nuclear and particle physics, which has led to advances in theoretical and experimental research. Prof Thomas is Elder Professor of Physics at the University of Adelaide and Director of the University Research Centre for Complex Systems and the Structure of Matter.

Professor Michelle Simmons AO for her outstanding achievements in physics research, industry applications, mentorship, and leadership. Her research achievements include creating the field of atomic electronics, realising the first single-atom transistor and then the first integrated circuit made with atomic precision. Prof Simmons is the Founder and CEO of Silicon Quantum Computing Pty. Ltd. and the Director of the Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computation and Communication Technology at the University of New South Wales.

Professor Tanya Monro AC for her exceptional contributions to physics research, translation of research to industry, leadership of research organisations, science diplomacy and service to Australia. Prof Monro is Australia’s Chief Defence Scientist, leads the Defence Science Technology Group, and is a pioneer in fibre optics technology.

The three new AIP Honorary Fellows join five current Honorary Fellows: Prof David Booth, Prof Robert Delbourgo, Dr Cathy Foley AO PSM, Prof Bruce McKellar AC, and Prof Brian Schmidt AC.