Professor Kishan Dholakia has been named a finalist for South Australia’s 2025 Scientist of the Year award, recognised for his work harnessing light to tackle some of the most complex challenges in biology, medicine, and the environment. As Director of the Centre of Light for Life at the University of Adelaide, Dholakia leads research that ranges from imaging embryos to detecting food contaminants, without making a single incision.
The South Australian Science Excellence and Innovation Awards, set to take place in November, honour standout contributions across six categories. Dholakia’s inclusion reflects his international standing in biophotonics, a field that uses light to manipulate and study living systems. It also underscores the local impact of his work in advancing medical diagnostics, reproductive health, agriculture, and environmental monitoring.
Originally from the UK, Dholakia became a full professor at the University of St Andrews by 36 and later established the Centre of Biophotonics there. Since relocating to Adelaide, he’s built a 16-member research team and secured more than $60 million in research funding. His work has led to the development of intelligent microscopy systems, commercialised optical trapping tools, and new applications of light in areas like IVF, wine production, and Alzheimer’s research.
The Centre of Light for Life, founded in 2023, has already attracted over $5 million in research funding, with projects that span low-light imaging for embryo health, quantum-inspired fertility tools, and optoacoustic scanning of ocular biomarkers. Dholakia’s collaborations with industry and government have helped translate academic breakthroughs into practical technologies, such as Raman spectroscopy tools used to detect spoilage through packaging.
With over 375 published papers, a h-index of 96, and citations topping 40,000, Dholakia remains a global figure in his field. He’s also filed 27 patent families—23 of which are licensed—and has worked with companies including Boeing and M Squared Lasers.
Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science Susan Close said the awards showcase “scientists, researchers, innovators and educators [who] are at the forefront of their fields.” Chief Scientist of South Australia, Professor Craig Simmons, added that the introduction of a new category for mid-career professionals this year recognises the balancing act many face. “It’s been gratifying this year to be able to select finalists who are in the middle of their careers, juggling multiple responsibilities while still making major breakthroughs,” he said.
Dholakia is one of three finalists shortlisted for SA Scientist of the Year, alongside Professor Heike Ebendorff-Heidepriem and Professor Matthew Gilliham. The winner will be announced at the awards ceremony on 14 November in Adelaide.
For now, Dholakia’s focus remains on the science. His team continues work on projects like hyperspectral light-sheet microscopy for plant research, neuromorphic cameras for sperm tracking, and microrheology of egg-supporting cells. Whether it’s shaping beams of light or mentoring the next generation of scientists, Dholakia’s work is a reminder that precision and curiosity still have a place in public life.
The full list of finalists across all categories, from collaborative innovation to STEMM education, is available here. Tickets to the ceremony will be open to the public in September.
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