Giacinta Parish

Giacinta Parish is Professor in the Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering at the University of Western Australia's School of Engineering. She serves as Director of the UWA Defence & Security Institute and is a Board Director for Australian Remote Operations for Space and Earth (AROSE). Her work bridges academic research with practical applications in defence, security, and space technologies.

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, University of California Santa Barbara (2001)
• Master of Engineering Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Western Australia (1997)
• Bachelor of Engineering in Electronic Engineering, University of Western Australia (1995)
• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, University of Western Australia (1995)

Professor Parish's research focuses on advanced semiconductor materials and device technologies, with particular expertise in III-V nitride materials and porous silicon. Her work spans the development of chemical, bio- and infrared sensors for environmental monitoring, industrial applications, and defence purposes. She investigates semiconductor device physics, sensor array development, and micro-electronics for practical sensing solutions. Her multidisciplinary background combines electronic engineering, materials science, and chemistry to create innovative sensor technologies.

Her recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on porous silicon and gallium nitride-based sensor technologies. The research shows progression from fundamental material properties to practical device applications, with increasing emphasis on thermal sensing, chemical detection, and integration with micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). The work often combines experimental fabrication with theoretical modeling to optimize sensor performance.

• Science & Technology Excellence in Leadership Award, Defence Science and Technology Group (2024)
• Women in Technology WA '20 in 20' award (2018)
• Senior Member, Institute of Electrical & Electronic Engineers (IEEE)
• Finalist, Scopus Young Investigator Awards (2011)
• Fulbright Scholar (1996)

Professor Parish has supervised numerous research students and leads multiple funded projects, including 'A Sensor for Diagnostics and Closed-Loop Drug Delivery in the Inner Ear' (NHMRC, 2024-2026) and 'DFAT SE Asia Maritime Exchange' (2022-2023). Her research has attracted significant funding from organizations including the Australian Research Council and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

As Director of the UWA Defence & Security Institute, Professor Parish leads a multidisciplinary team working at the intersection of academic research and defence applications. She also contributes to the International Space Centre's Advisory Board, connecting her expertise in sensor technologies with space applications through AROSE.