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UNSW SMaRT Centre researcher and senior lecturer Dr Samane Maroufi has been named a finalist in the 2026 Women of Colour in STEM Awards.
In the running for the Environmental Impact Award, Dr Maroufi has a long history of research and development at SMaRT, contributing to the research science and development of technology solutions for waste materials resource recovery, to help create circular economies while enhancing sovereign and industrial capability and reducing reliance on virgin resources and vulnerable global supply chains.
Key technologies developed by SMaRT include various MICROfactorieTM Technologies - small, modular recycling systems that transform discarded products such as mattresses, glass, textiles, and electronic waste into valuable materials and products - and its Green SteelTM Polymer Injection Technology that uses waste rubber, polymers/plastics and biowaste (coffee grounds) as alternatives to coal and coke in electric arc furnace iron and steel making.
Organised by STEM Sisters, the awards "honour the remarkable achievements of women of colour pioneering innovation and driving change in STEM" and this category recognises those who have "demonstrated a substantial impact on environmental policies, sustainable practices, or significant environmental research".
Dr Maroufi said on being named a finalist: "Being a finalist means a lot to me. It is recognition of a journey that has brought together my passion for sustainability, research, industry and education.
"I’ve had the opportunity to turn waste into resources while working at the SMaRT Centre and develop practical solutions for more sustainable industries, but equally important to me is inspiring and educating the next generation of women in STEM.
"As a woman from a diverse background, I hope my journey shows others that barriers don’t have to define what we can achieve, and that we all have the potential to create meaningful change."