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Biography
Jessica Hildyard is a senior communications leader at CSIRO, known for her ability to navigate complexity and deliver high-impact strategies that connect science with society. Since joining CSIRO in 2017, Jessica has shaped national campaigns, guided partnerships and amplified stories that demonstrate the value of Australia’s research ecosystem for national benefit.
Jessica’s leadership spans diverse portfolios. As Communications Manager for Science Connect, she directed strategies for SME Connect, CSIRO Publishing, Infrastructure Technologies, and Education & Outreach, strengthening CSIRO’s reputation across industry and community. Her work with ON Accelerator and the SME collaboration initiative spotlighted deep-tech entrepreneurs and startups transforming Australian industries.
Her career reflects a commitment to impact and inclusion. Jessica has driven communications for award-winning programs such as the Young Indigenous Women’s STEM Academy and Living STEM, championing initiatives that embed cultural capability and inspire future STEM leaders. She has also led high-profile campaigns for National Science Week, quadrupling engagement in 2024 through creative partnerships and securing significant external funding.
In 2025, Jessica as Senior Advisor for Industry & Partnerships, she delivered record-breaking engagement for the CSIRO Conversations series, curating industry foused webinars that offered science insights for business outcomes.
Beyond strategic communication leadership, Jess has a flair for delivering memorable, high-impact events and contributing skills widely across the organisation. From the WA Living STEM showcase, National Science Week, Sydney Mardi Gras and ON Accelerator events, her work aims to inspire connection between everyday Australians while supporting our researchers to be rock stars.
Jessica also brings over a decade of federal government experience in agriculture, defence, intellectual property, and climate policy, complemented by international communications leadership roles in the UK.
She holds a Bachelor of Communication, Graduate Diplomas in Journalism and Business, and UX Design accreditation from RMIT, combining strategic insight with user-centred design expertise.
Achievements and Awards
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2024-2024
Women in Technology Awards: Public Sector Excellence - Young Indigenous Women's STEM Academy
CSIRO -
2023-2023
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement Impact Excellence Medal: Young Indigenous Women's STEM Academy
CSIRO -
2024-2024
Women in Technology Awards: First Nations Change Maker Prize - Young Indigenous Women's STEM Academy
CSIRO -
2017-2017
CSIRO Medal for Support Excellence: ON Team
CSIRO -
2024-2024
Winner - CSIRO Award for Support Excellence: National Science Week 2023
CSIRO
Current Roles
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Senior Communications Advisor
Industry & Partnerships