About Professor Virginia Kilborn

Professor Virginia Kilborn was appointed as Swinburne’s inaugural Chief Scientist in May 2021. She is a renowned radio astronomer who has led a highly successful career delivering research with impact within the local scientific community and on an international scale.

In what is believed to be the first appointment in an Australian university, Swinburne’s Chief Scientist provides leadership in science within and outside the University, driving scientific relationships and policy with government, industry and schools.

Aligned with Swinburne’s Horizon 2025 Strategic Plan where people and technology work together for a better world, Professor Kilborn is dedicated to fostering transformative science that creates genuine social and economic impact.

Key focus areas

Science research

Science education

Science policy and development

Science equity and diversity

  • Professor Virginia Kilborn – Swinburne Chief Scientist

    “There has never been a more important time to be involved in science. As we step into the critical challenges of our nation and the world, the scientific voice must be more present.

    I am proud to represent that voice and continue to spearhead the great work that fellow scientists are performing at Swinburne and more broadly.”

    Professor Virginia Kilborn , Swinburne's Chief Scientist

    View Professor Kilborn's profile (Professor Virginia Kilborn)

Representing the scientific voice

After joining Swinburne’s Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing in 2003, Professor Kilborn has taught undergraduate and postgraduate astronomy and held multiple leadership roles as Chair of the Department of Physics and Astronomy, Dean of Science, and now as Swinburne’s inaugural Chief Scientist.

Leveraging her extensive astrophysics knowledge and proven leadership experience, Virginia has strategically worked to further education, research, policy and equity at Swinburne and throughout the scientific research community.

Professor Kilborn is an active member of the Australian Astronomical community, a past President of the Astronomical Society of Australia, and current Chair of the National Committee for Astronomy (NCA) with the Academy of Science.

She is also playing a leading role in advancing Swinburne’s science and technology focus and helping guide our learners, educators, and industry partners on the path to a digital, tech-rich future.

Swinburne's space technology capabilities

Swinburne's space technology capabilities

Learn more about space technology at Swinburne and how we are paving the way by combining our globally renowned capabilities in astrophysics, aerospace, aviation, engineering, advanced manufacturing, and digital technologies.

View transcript [PDF 110KB]

  • Swinburne Quantum

    We are harnessing our deep and diverse expertise in quantum science, technology, and adjacent fields to help shape the next generation of quantum-enabled industry.

    Learn more (Swinburne Quantum)

Science news

Explore science with Swinburne's Chief Scientist

For any strategic science-related advice, expert commentary or public engagement requests, please contact Professor Virginia Kilborn at vkilborn@swinburne.edu.au.

Email Professor Kilborn