"The whole world recognises that there is the need for more people that are trained in science technology and engineering," said Sackett. She expressed the hope that current global challenges, such as climate change and energy supply, will inspire more young people to consider the fields of science and research.
"Most young people want to live in a world where they can feel they can influence and they want to make a difference and, indeed, if that is something that a young person feels is important, then science must be one of the top fields these days," Sackett argued.
"The ability to influence the world around them disproportionately will hopefully be reasons to inspire young people," she added.
Australia has already realised that more interdisciplinary science is key to increasing its attractiveness, according to the scientist. She predicted that "we will witness new sorts of job opportunities for people that are interested in science".
She described science and law as a "very valuable combination if we are thinking about things like the carbon-trading scheme".
Woman in science
Another field where Europe could follow Australia's example is promoting women in science. Not only was Sackett recently appointed as the country's chief scientist, but other women chair two of Australia's leading research institutions, she told EurActiv.
"I think what we are seeing is a shift, in that Australians are actually quite comfortable with this. So I am pleased with it and I would be pleased if every nation could use its full potential," Sackett said.
The European Commission has launched several initiatives in recent years to encourage women to take part in European research. Currently, women represent a majority (56%) of graduates in higher education in Europe, but only account for a quarter of engineering graduates. Likewise, the proportion of women involved in research gets smaller the further their careers advance, meaning that not many are involved at the highest level. This is particularly true for careers in industry, while just 14% of full-time professors in Europe are female (see EurActiv Links Dossier).
