Vale Professor Emma Johnston AO

Wild Dingo Press acknowledges the life and contributions of Emma Johnston AO, who died on 26 December 2025, following complications associated with cancer.

Professor Johnston was one of Australia’s most respected marine ecologists and science leaders. Her work focused on understanding how human activity affects marine environments, and she was known for her ability to explain complex science in ways that were clear, engaging and meaningful. Across her career she authored 185 peer-reviewed journal articles, supervised more than 35 higher degree research students, and made a lasting contribution to Australia’s scientific and research community.

She established her academic career at the University of New South Wales, where she held senior leadership roles including Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) and Dean of Science. She later became Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) at the University of Sydney, before being appointed the 21st Vice-Chancellor of the University of Melbourne in February 2025. This appointment marked a return to the university where she had once been a student and completed her PhD in marine ecology. Alongside her university leadership, she also served in significant national roles, including as a Director of the CSIRO and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, and as President of Science and Technology Australia.

Wild Dingo Press was honoured to profile Professor Johnston in the Aussie STEM Stars series through Emma Johnston: Marine biologist and TV presenter. Written for middle-grade readers, the book shares Emma’s story from childhood curiosity to a career in marine science, leadership and public communication. It reflects her belief in the importance of science, education, and giving young people — especially girls — real role models to look up to.

Author Dee White writes:

I came to know Emma as a person, a scientist and a visionary when we were working on our Aussie STEM Stars book inspired by her incredible achievements and fierce commitment to saving the marine world and advocating for women in science. She was kind, compassionate and dedicated, and an inspiration to so many people. Her passing is a huge loss for Australia, the environment, science and everyone who knew and loved her.

This book now forms part of Professor Johnston’s legacy — one small way her life, work and values will continue to inspire young readers to care for the natural world and to imagine themselves as future scientists.

You can find Emma Johnston: Marine biologist and TV presenter here:
👉 https://www.wilddingopress.com.au/shop/p/9781925893762

Emma Johnston with her Aussie STEM Stars book written by Dee White