Julie Cairney

Professor Julie Cairney is a leading materials scientist at The University of Sydney, holding a professorship in the School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering. She earned her B.Met.Eng. and PhD in Physical Metallurgy from UNSW, followed by research roles at the University of Birmingham and Max Planck Institute. Currently, she serves as Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research - Enterprise and Engagement) and CEO of Microscopy Australia, while maintaining active research in atomic-scale materials characterization.

• PhD in Physical Metallurgy, UNSW (2002)
• B.Met.Eng., UNSW (1998)

Her research focuses on advanced microscopy techniques to analyze materials at atomic resolution, connecting microstructure to macroscopic properties. Key applications include superalloys, hydrogen-resistant steels, and nanomaterials for energy and biomedical sectors. Her work enables the development of lighter high-strength alloys and high-temperature materials with environmental and industrial benefits.

Recent publications highlight innovations in hydrogen trapping analysis, cryo-atom probe tomography, and ferroelectric domain characterization. Collaborative projects span renewable energy materials, bioceramics, and additive manufacturing. She supervises students working on topics like hydrogen embrittlement, high-entropy alloys, and bioelectronic materials.

Scientific Contributions

• ARC Future Fellow
• Co-author of Atom Probe Microscopy (Springer Series)
• Leadership in Microscopy Australia and Sydney Nano Institute

She teaches Materials 1 (AMME2302) and Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (MECH1560). Her lab develops correlative microscopy methods and 3D atom mapping for material optimization, with applications in aerospace, renewable energy, and biomedical systems.