Science in action: Stories from women shaping Australia's Geoscience

With a distinguished career in Earth science, Marina Costelloe has seen both the transformation of the field and its growing importance to Australia’s national strategy. Today she leads the Mineral Systems Branch, supporting work that helps Australia understand its mineral resources and strengthen long-term economic resilience.

A childhood curiosity became a career

‘My interest started outdoors - I loved digging and discovering fossils (old snail shells), playing ‘constructing dams’ with the kids in the neighborhood and had a rock collection of course. My curiosity about nature kept growing as I learned more about science, and it’s still growing, just like my rock collection.

Leading science that supports Australia’s future

‘Our team are working to better understand the geology of Australia so we can understand where resources (minerals, metals, critical minerals) are to support Australia’s energy transition, long-term economic resilience (exports) and support Government policy. Our team map, survey, model, interpret, date, measure, interrogate samples, rocks, soil, water to pull out key information and make it so it can be used it for many purposes but mainly for mineral, energy and groundwater communities.’

The national impact of understanding the geology of Australia

'I am proud to contribute to the work of Geoscience Australia providing the data, research, and technical advice that help Australia understand and manage its land, resources, and natural hazards. Our organisation has broad national impact by strengthening Australia’s economic resilience, resource security, and scientific capability. As the Mineral Systems Branch Head, I support precompetitive geoscience data that drives exploration, provides advice to Government and improves the understanding of Australia’s mineral, energy, and groundwater systems, stimulating industry activity and supports long-term economic growth. The data and information my team is responsible for has many uses, including mapping critical minerals, so stewardship of data and information for Australia is also an important role.

Progress and culture in Earth sciences

During her career, Marina has seen significant progress for women in the profession. ‘I have seen a great deal of change for women in the Earth sciences during my career. At Geoscience Australia significant progress has been made. SAGE (Science in Australia Gender Equity) accreditation has seen meaningful changes and recognition for the hard work it took to make these changes.

The creation of the Woman’s Network, which blossomed into GENGA (Gender Equity Network at GA), again through hard work, supported an inclusive culture and great change. Improvements and commitments in our Diversity and Inclusion and People Strategies also support diversity.

She notes the broader workplace changes have also strengthened inclusion. ‘Flexible working has had a positive impact on Geoscience Australia’s inclusive culture benefiting all genders. Yes, the main driver may have been Covid, but the way the organisation responded, and how people supported each other has been great to be a part of.’

What’s next for Earth sciences

‘Geology and the Earth sciences are central to addressing complex challenges in energy, water, food security, and hazard resilience. With new technologies and AI we can monitor, model and map our planet in new ways. The opportunity to explore extreme environments from the deep ocean to off-world exploration is incredibly exciting.

Jasmin Wells – Marine Geoscientist, Oceans, Reefs, Coasts and the Antarctic Branch

Marine Geoscientist, Jasmin Wells, is in the early stages of her career, having joined Geoscience Australia through the 2023-24 Graduate program. Her work focuses on understanding the seabed and the physical processes shaping Australia’s marine environments.

Curiosity about the environment sparked a career

‘My interest in Earth sciences grew from a passion for the environment and a curiosity about how Earth systems work. I studied environmental science because I wanted to understand and protect the places I care about, but I became increasingly drawn to the physical processes shaping our planet.

One thing led to another, and I decided to apply for the graduate program at GA hoping to expand my knowledge. And here I am today, working as a marine geoscientist. It’s challenging, but that’s why I love it.’

Mapping the seabed and exploring Antarctica

Jasmin’s work involves mapping and characterising the seabed to improve understanding. ‘Last year I participated in a marine science voyage to Antarctica where I collected and interpreted seabed and sub-surface data that is now being used by the international scientific community. Currently, I am working on a project to map and characterise the seabed in Australian waters as part of the Renewables Environmental Research Initiative (RERI). This work strengthens our understanding of seabed environments and supports better decision making as Australia moves towards the development of offshore renewable energy. Being part of science that informs both national and global decisions is something I really value.’

Supporting evidence-based decisions

‘My work in the Marine and Coastal Geoscience section helps improve Australia’s understanding of its marine environment by delivering trusted seabed and marine data. This work supports informed decision making which ensures Australia’s marine jurisdiction is managed responsibly.’

A collaborative and evolving field

For Jasmin, the diversity of Earth sciences is part of what makes the field. ‘Earth sciences are very diverse so there’s a place for everyone. Even in the relatively short time I’ve been in the field, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to projects that have real impact. These projects would not have been possible without collaboration and that’s what excites me the most.

I’ve had the privilege of working with some amazing women who inspire and encourage me every day. Women are increasingly stepping into roles that shape the direction of Earth sciences and the future is one where their leadership, influence and strength are not the exception but the norm. As representation grows, science becomes stronger and more reflective of the diverse communities it serves.’

Starting a career in geoscience

Jasmin says the graduate program provided valuable exposure to different areas of geoscience. ‘My graduate year was highly rewarding. Rotations across the different divisions provided me with a broader and more integrated perspective on Earth sciences. Over the year I worked in Space division, learnt about geology and drilling in the Regional Geology and Drilling section and started my career as a marine geoscientist learning about geomorphology and seabed mapping from my now colleagues. Working alongside a graduate cohort with different science backgrounds also offered valuable opportunities for learning.

Advice for the next generation

Say yes to opportunities and be willing to take the leap.

Many of the experiences I’ve had come from putting my hand up, even when I was uncertain. I never imagined I would become a marine geoscientist, let alone have the chance to work in Antarctica. This journey has shown me that with curiosity and courage, the possibilities are far greater than you might expect.

Evolution and the future

Earth sciences are evolving rapidly, as new technologies and data transforms how we understand our planet. Fields such as advanced analytics, digital mapping, remote sensing, machine learning and multi-hazard modelling are expanding the scope of geoscience capabilities.

Geoscience Australia’s work reflects this shift, bringing together expertise from science, data, engineering, operations, communications, education and beyond.

As part of yesterday’s internal International Women’s Day event, our Gender Champion and Chief of Space Division, Alison Rose, joined Lucy Poole (Deputy CEO, Digital Transformation Agency), Wayne Phillips (Commissioner, ACT Emergency Services Agency), David Ball (Regional Director, Australia and New Zealand, Lockheed Martin Space) and Jennie Mallela (ANU Research Fellow and participant of Superstars of STEM) to share perspectives on gender equity, inclusion and leadership on the theme Give to Gain. The discussion highlighted the importance of diverse teams and the critical role inclusion plays in building capability across organisations.

Reflecting on Geoscience Australia’s progress and the work still ahead, Ms Rose noted:

‘Through intentional giving of our time, of recognising flexibility, visibility and opportunity, we strengthen both our people and strengthen our organisations.

While we have made strong progress at Geoscience Australia, we do know that sustained gains in equality across STEM require continued commitment, shared responsibility and purposeful action. Give to Gain challenges us to think differently about progress, to consider what we need to give and what we gain in return. Stronger Teams, better decisions, safer cultures and more sustainable capability. When we give intentionally everyone benefits.’