--- About Straight Up
CLEAR THINKING FOR COMPLEX RESEARCH
We help researchers, innovators, and institutions communicate their work, secure funding and
turn ideas into meaningful outcomes.
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WHAT WE DO
Straight Up works with research and innovation teams to communicate complex ideas clearly, strategically and with purpose for industry, government and academic audiences.
From funding applications and stakeholder engagement to strategic messaging and partnership development, we work across the research and innovation landscape to help great ideas gain traction.
WHY WORK WITH US
We’re known for getting across complex ideas, fast. Our clients tell us it’s a relief not to have to explain their world twice.
We're flexible in how we work, from one-off support to ongoing collaborations, depending on what the project needs.
And above all, we care about quality. We don’t do fluff. We do thoughtful, strategic communication that works hard for you.
HOW WE WORK
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We get it
We understand complex work quickly and translate it without losing nuance. -
We make it easy
We take the pressure off. Clear process, no overcomplication, and communication that works. - We speak your language
Whether it’s research, government or industry—we know the terrain and tailor your message to the audience. - We care about the work
We do things properly, because the work you’re doing matters. Every word is thoughtful and purposeful.
MEET THE TEAM
Straight Up is a multidisciplinary team combining research literacy, strategic thinking and communication expertise to deliver real-world impact.
While studying a Bachelor of Science, I recognised a missing link scientists and technologists lacked access to professionals who could translate complex ideas into compelling narratives, not just for the public, but for fellow researchers, funding bodies, and policy-makers. At the time, science communicators were focused on public engagement, and marketers rarely had a background in science. Even today, that combination remains rare.
I set out to change that.
Early in my career, I worked as a grant program coordinator, communication manager, project manager, and strategic writer in government and industry. I later completed an MBA (with Distinction) and earned certificates in Communication Strategy, Media and Advertising from the Public Relations Institute of Australia.
Leading Straight Up
At Straight Up, I lead a team that combines deep scientific literacy with business strategy, marketing, and communication expertise. The result is clear, credible, and high-impact communication valued by target audiences.
Experience & impact
Versatile consultant experienced in leading high-impact communication projects and multi-million-dollar initiatives. Specialist in government website reviews and the collaborative co-design of innovation centers and research groups.
I am driven by the impactful work Straight Up accomplishes in collaboration with clients to deliver outstanding results for their research and projects. I thrive on becoming an integral part of the client’s team, working together to bring their visions to life. Tight deadlines and the opportunity to explore exciting science and research fuel my energy and creativity.
I have a background in geology and environmental science, with a Bachelor of Science (Honors in Geoscience) and a Graduate Diploma in Environment and Sustainability. As a former resource geologist, I gained valuable insights into managing natural resources. In addition to my work as a geologist, I have experience in community development and a proven track record of securing funding for community groups, as well as environmental and research organisations that support initiatives driving meaningful change.
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What I love about my work
I love translating complex ideas into clear, compelling, and impactful narratives that resonate with funders and stakeholders.
Experience & expertise
Geologist and communications strategist with a decade-long track record of securing multi-million-dollar funding and designing large-scale research initiatives through a blend of technical expertise and community-focused advocacy.
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I have had a diverse career in science, education, company start ups and management. Over the journey I worked with companies, Government organizations and Universities on the technical front (I'm a geologist), the corporate management front (I was an ASX-listed co-founding CEO) and business management and communications front (I worked for 11.5 years in a University in business and research management).
Funding, bids & impact
- Managed a successful CRC bid
- Served on bid teams for multiple CRCs
- Supported successful CRCP, ARENA, ARC ITTC, and ITRH bids
- Delivered scientific writing services and project assessments
Journey & perspective
I’m the first person in my family born in Australia. My father came from the USA in 1968 on a Fulbright Scholarship to advise CSIRO on managing a national fly problem caused by introduced livestock. He stayed, and I was born here in 1970.
Values & purpose
I believe strongly in Treaty, fairness, and nature-positive outcomes, guided by the overarching goals of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). I feel a deep sense of urgency to help slow our acceleration toward climate, environmental, and social catastrophe and I aim to contribute meaningfully in the time I have.
I began my career in the UK as a Communications Manager for a top law firm, where I discovered a passion for simplifying complex topics without losing technical accuracy. After moving to Australia in 2007, I worked as a Senior Communications Adviser for SA Health and the Department for Environment and Water, translating technical content in medical, hydrological, and environmental fields for wider audiences.
Achievements
- Supported successful DECRA applications with above-average success
- Contributed to ARC Training Centre and Economic Accelerator bids
- Helped an ARC Early Career Fellowship applicant secure funding
- Authored a profile for the Defence and Security Institute, translating expert-level topics like quantum sensors and cyber defence into accessible language
Joining Straight Up
Since 2021, I’ve been part of Straight Up, supporting researchers and innovators to make a positive impact in the world. I love helping clients communicate complex science and research in ways that are clear, accurate, and engaging.
Personal interests
Outside work, I’m a self-confessed nerd, enjoying pop culture conventions, film screenings, and podcasts on screenwriting. My dream? Writing my own screenplay in a quiet forest home next to a lake.
I began with a Bachelor of Science in Ecology, driven by curiosity about the natural world and how people interact with it. This curiosity has guided my work in sustainability education, communications, and program design aimed at shaping positive behavioural change.
Skills & approach
Drawing on my ecology background, I take a systems perspective zooming out to see the big picture, then zooming in to connect the parts and uncover the stories that matter. I specialize in translating complex ideas into compelling narratives, especially when they relate to the natural world.
Work with Straight Up
Since 2023, I’ve contributed to CRC projects, collaborating with industry and research teams to help launch meaningful initiatives. I thrive on fusing science literacy with thoughtful writing to ensure ideas land clearly and effectively.
Career journey
My career has taken me from the Botanic Gardens of Adelaide, to establishing ecotourism in remote Papua New Guinea, and finally to a five-year project coordinator role at a sustainability education centre in central Sydney.
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