To Celebrate National Science Week – we spoke to Science and Technology Australia’s Director of Policy and Government Relations – Dr Sarah Tynan on why she believes science is the foundation of human progress.
STA is the peak body for Australia’s science and technology sectors, representing 145 member organisations and more than 235,000 professionals.
As Director of Policy and Government Relations at Science & Technology Australia (STA), Dr Tynan has the role of working to bring the expertise of Australia’s scientists and technologists into the heart of policy making.
“We connect the scientific community with governments, business, and the public to ensure science helps address humanity’s greatest challenges,” said Dr Tynan.
“From the earliest days of human history, science has been driven by curiosity. Tens of thousands of years ago, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples looked to the night sky, studied the land, and observed the natural world, asking the same questions we still ask today: How does this all work? How can we live in harmony with each other and the environment?”
Dr Tynan also believes science helps humanity progress, survive, and thrive through new medicines, ways to improve environmental management, food production, and energy and transport needs.
“There is no question scientific research continues to be the foundation of human progress. From solar panels to electric cars, pest-resistant crops to mapping the ocean floor, innovations begin with curiosity-driven research. Sometimes, breakthroughs arise from pursuing questions without an immediate application, only for the results to transform the world decades later,” added Dr Tynan.
She explained that people need the ability to look at information through a critical lens and interrogate it to check if the facts hold up – skills delivered through strong science education.
“In an era where we are bombarded with information, where the words misinformation and disinformation are part of the common lexicon, and where debate rapidly becomes a standoff between two polarised positions, it’s critical people have the ability to access information, think critically, and ask relevant questions,” added Dr Tynan.
She also believes scientific literacy is more important than ever. With misinformation and disinformation so prevalent, the ability to interrogate evidence, and separate fact from fiction is essential.
“Programs like STA’s Superstars of STEM work to challenge gender stereotypes in science and inspire the next generation, while Science Meets Parliament connects expert researchers with policymakers to ensure decisions are grounded in evidence,” said Dr Tynan.
She sees science as humanity’s most powerful tool for tackling global crises. The unprecedented collaboration that produced COVID-19 vaccines is estimated to have saved around 15 million lives within a year. The same level of urgency and cooperation is now needed to confront climate change — a challenge requiring knowledge, innovation, and policy to work hand in hand.
“The scientific method — built on observation, testing, and peer review — ensures that claims are scrutinised and refined before reaching the public. This process not only protects the integrity of science but also equips society with reliable knowledge to guide action,” added Dr Tynan. “Ultimately, science is about problem-solving. It enables us to address pressing issues, from preserving ecosystems to improving health and quality of life.”
She also notes that investing in research is not just an investment in laboratories and experiments — it’s an investment in the collective future. She believes the big questions we face demand bold, collaborative, and evidence-based solutions.
“Science shows us what is possible when we remain curious, work together, and keep asking questions. It is the thread connecting our past, present, and future — and our best hope for building a thriving, sustainable world,’ concluded Dr Tynan.
We thank Dr Tynan for her time and insights.