Two researchers from Curtin University have been celebrated as joint winners of the prestigious 2025 Young Tall Poppy Science Awards in Western Australia, recognizing them as some of Australia”s leading emerging scientists. Dr. Denis Fougerouse, a geologist, and Dr. Yongze Song, a geospatial scientist, were acknowledged for their significant contributions to Australia”s future in clean energy and smart infrastructure.
The Young Tall Poppy Awards, organized by the Australian Institute of Policy and Science (AIPS), honor exceptional early-career scientists who not only excel in research but also demonstrate a commitment to engaging the community in scientific endeavors. Professor Harlene Hayne, Vice-Chancellor of Curtin, praised the achievements of both researchers, stating that their work highlights Curtin”s capability in producing impactful global research.
“Dr. Fougerouse and Dr. Song are addressing crucial challenges that are significant to both Western Australia and the global community,” said Professor Hayne. “Their research positions WA at the forefront of international efforts to promote renewable energy and sustainable urban development, which are essential for our future prosperity.”
As part of their recognition within the Young Tall Poppy program, both researchers will undertake educational and outreach initiatives throughout Western Australia. They will engage with schools, conduct workshops, and inspire the next generation of scientists.
Dr. Denis Fougerouse specializes in nanogeoscience and is a vital contributor at Curtin”s Geoscience Atom Probe facility. His research focuses on enhancing Australia”s role in the global shift towards clean energy by improving the methodologies for locating and extracting critical minerals essential for renewable technologies, such as batteries and solar panels. Despite Australia”s wealth of mineral resources, many critical elements are challenging to detect and extract. Dr. Fougerouse”s innovative use of nanoscale analytical techniques allows for imaging of atoms within minerals, uncovering how valuable metals are distributed on an atomic scale.
His findings indicate that these metals are often found concentrated in minute crystal defects rather than being evenly dispersed throughout the minerals, a discovery that could significantly alter mining and processing strategies for critical resources. Dr. Fougerouse leads a research team dedicated to establishing the scientific groundwork necessary to enhance mineral recovery, minimize waste, and create a more resilient and sustainable critical minerals supply chain.
Dr. Yongze Song is a recognized geospatial scientist with extensive international collaborations. He heads a geospatial intelligence team that innovates advanced methods and software aimed at improving sustainable infrastructure management. Utilizing geospatial artificial intelligence (GeoAI), Dr. Song works to develop smarter, greener urban environments. His research addresses various urban challenges, including the rapid deterioration of roads under climate change and the uneven distribution of green spaces that help mitigate urban heat.
By integrating satellite data, machine learning, and spatial analytics, Dr. Song”s work uncovers hidden patterns within urban systems. His freely available GeoAI tools and interactive maps have been downloaded over 200,000 times globally, assisting governments in predicting road wear, assessing urban heat, and identifying disparities in access to public services. Collaborating with both national and international partners, including Western Australia”s road authorities, Dr. Song is shaping the future of data-driven urban planning, enhancing infrastructure resilience, promoting sustainability, and fostering equity within communities.
For additional information regarding the 2025 WA Young Tall Poppy Science Awards, visit the AIPS website.
