Emma Johnston is a leader in the field of marine ecology, whose pioneering research has been widely adopted into policy by governments in Australia and overseas. She is also a highly influential leader, advocate and ‘voice’ for Australian science. Johnston is the immediate past President of Science and Technology Australia (STA). She currently leads one of the largest science faculties in the country at the University of New South Wales, and serves as Director of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Board. Combined with her extensive track record of science communication and outreach, Johnston is an exceptional role model and science champion.