Dr. Stefania Peracchi is a nuclear physicist and accelerator scientist at the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), where she specialises in space radiation effects on electronics, shielding materials, and astronaut health. Originally from Italy, she holds a Master’s in Nuclear Engineering from Politecnico di Milano and research experience at the French Institute for Radiological Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN) in Paris. Her PhD in Nuclear Physics at the University of Wollongong contributed to the development of a novel detector for space radiation monitoring and to innovative shielding solutions for spacecraft.
Dr. Peracchi’s research bridges nuclear physics, radiobiology, and radiation protection, with applications in both space exploration and cancer treatment. Stefania has been internationally recognized through numerous awards, including being named a Global Australian Award Finalist in 2023 and receiving the Italian Bilateral Scientific Cooperation Medal in 2024 from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. A passionate science communicator and strong advocate for the next generation of scientists, Dr. Peracchi is deeply committed to fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration and she continues to engage national and international audiences, inspiring awareness and action around the responsible and sustainable access and use of space.