News
Dr Verity Normington in new book celebrating Rebel Girls in STEM with disabilities and chronic illness
Published:17 November 2025
Dr Verity Normington
A new book highlighting women changing the world through science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) features Geoscience Australia geoscientist and a chronic illness and STEM advocate, Dr Verity Normington.
Celebrating women in STEM with disabilities and chronic illness, the book is a collaboration by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute and global girl empowerment brand Rebel Girls, creators of the bestselling Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls.
In Australia, 21.4% of the population is living with some form of disability according to 2022 data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. By showcasing the stories of extraordinary women who have broken barriers and thrived in STEM, this book gives children with disabilities and chronic illnesses, particularly young girls, the chance to imagine themselves as scientists, innovators, and leaders.
Dr Normington is the Acting Director of Strategic Science at Geoscience Australia. Throughout her career she overcomes barriers associated with her diagnosis of Crohn’s disease at 18 years old and is a passionate advocate for people with chronic illnesses, particularly those working in STEM.
“My diagnosis with Crohn’s disease has increased my empathy for others and taught me to be prepared, more flexible and given me an ability to go with the flow,” Dr Normington said. “It has shown me how strong I truly am.”
Geoscience Australia supports diversity and inclusion, with staff-led networks promoting a workplace for all abilities so everyone can fully participate and pursue rewarding careers. In the recent 2025 Australian Public Service Employee Census, 10% of Geoscience Australia respondents reported an ongoing disability and another 12% identifying as neurodiverse.
Geoscience Australia Chief Executive Officer Melissa Harris said it is important to celebrate the diversity of people and ideas who contribute to the organisation. “I am blown away every day by the amazing people who work at Geoscience Australia, and the passion they have for what they do,” Ms Harris said.
“Science needs diverse perspectives to solve the world’s challenges. I am proud to lead an organisation that values diversity and inclusion, where people feel safe and inspired to make a positive impact through our geoscience.”
The book also includes downloadable educational resources to help spark interest in STEM careers. Geoscience Australia has supplied an activity on how the viscosity of lava affects the shape and size of volcanoes. The activity involves making lava slimes from household items with different thickness and racing them down a slope. It encourages budding young scientists to predict how lava viscosity might affect the shape of the volcano (a hypothesis), observe what happens, and relate this to our natural environment.
Through vivid illustrations, engaging resources and stories of lived experiences, the book helps young people with disabilities and chronic illnesses see the opportunities in STEM careers. The book will be delivered through a free e-book, podcast and downloadable activities, available globally to schools, libraries, families, and young people. To ensure accessibility, the book will also be available in braille.