As part of National Science Week celebrations, IAQ Ambassadors Dr Christina Zdenek, Luis Villegas-Aguilar, and David Corporal will connect with students from the Longreach School of Distance Education – one of the largest virtual classrooms in the world. Located in Outback Queensland, the school supports remote families across vast distances, living up to its motto: Effort Conquers Distance.

Dr Christina Zdenek, a renowned herpetologist and science communicator, will share insights into venomous snakes and the value of curiosity in scientific research.

Luis Villegas-Aguilar, a quantum physicist from Griffith University, will introduce students to the fascinating world of photons and quantum technology. Having just submitted his PhD thesis, Luis will show how the tiniest particles in the universe can power the technologies of tomorrow.

David Corporal, an aerospace engineer at Boeing and a 2024 NASA intern, will share his inspiring 25-year plan to become an astronaut. With a passion for space exploration and a background in cutting-edge aerospace projects, David will encourage students to dream big and aim high, no matter how remote their starting point.

Together, these ambassadors will ignite curiosity and encourage students to see science as a powerful tool for exploration, connection, and change. From virtual labs to real-world impact, this event will show that STEM (science, technology, engineering mathematics) removes all boundaries to possibilities!