OUTstanding LGBT+ Role Model Recognised - Murdoch Children's Research Institute

: Article published \ \ 20 January 2021

Dr Sarah Stephenson, Team Leader in the Neurogenetics group, has been recognised as an OUTstanding LGBT+ Role Model by the INvolve network, a global consultancy championing inclusion and diversity.

Inclusion in this year's OUTstanding 100 LGBT+ Future Leaders List, supported by Yahoo Finance, recognises Sarah's outstanding contributions to LGBT+ inclusion inside and outside the workplace, professional achievements in improving children's health and the influence of her role at MCRI.

Sarah's team uses advanced genomic technologies including genome sequencing analysing gene messages from single brain cells to study problems with brain development that cause epilepsy.

Sarah co-founded QueersInScience in June 2018 to foster an inclusive environment for LGBTIQA+ professionals and students in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths, Medicine) and has attracted significant grant funding to help establish a national LGBTQIA+ STEMM Network.

Sarah said, "We aim to powerfully transform inclusion of LGBTIQA+ people within STEMM by increasing support, enabling education, ending harassment and discrimination and empowering professionals, students and organisations."

"It is always lovely to be recognised for the work that we do. For me, this award reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team. I am continually impressed by the talent, creativity and drive of our team to create a better environment. This award is an opportunity to raise the profile of QueersInScience and hopeful create new conversations and networks to progress LGBTQIA+ STEMM inclusion."

Founder & CEO of INvolve, Suki Sandhu OBE, says, "I'm thrilled to be celebrating another amazing group of LGBT+ and Ally Role Models from across the globe who are championing inclusion and inspiring the next generation of talent. LGBT+ discrimination is still prevalent across the world and Role Models are essential to change perceptions and show everyone that you can be successful in business while also being your authentic self at work."