Dr Christina N. Zdenek

Dr Christina Zdenek is a former Fulbright Fellow, former professional basketball player, and a 2021 ABC Top 5 Scientist. As Qld's Inspiring Australia ambassador for 2024 and 2025, she brings science to the people, whether it be rural, regional, or remote Qld. An applied scientist—publishing more than 65 scientific papers—she has an enduring passion for science communication. Annually, she provides expert comment for over 50 media interviews, has been on TV 20 times since 2023 (8 times of which were live). The goal of her science and communication is to improve coexistence with wildlife, particularly snakes. For work, she 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 trains people on the safe and ethical handling of Australia's highly venomous (and fast!) snakes.