Christina Zdenek

Dr Christina Zdenek is a Fulbright Fellow alumna, former professional basketball player, and an ABC Top 5 Scientist (2021). As Qld’s Inspiring Australia ambassador for 2024 and 2025, she brings science to communities, whether it be rural, regional, or remote Qld. An applied scientist—publishing more than 65 scientific papers—she has a passion for science communication. Annually, she provides expert comment for over 50 media interviews, has been on TV 18 times since 2023 (8 times of which were live). The goal of her science and communication is to improve our relationship with wildlife and nature. She currently runs the national Urban Birds Program at BirdLife Australia, aiming to reverse the decline of our unique Australian birds. On the weekends, she co-runs the Australian Reptile Academy, where she provides training on the safe and ethical handling of Australia’s highly venomous (and fast!) snakes.