All Members

The Royal Australian Chemical Institute is pleased to announce the judging panel for the 2026 International Chemistry & Art Competition (ICAAC).

This year’s theme—“Chemistry powering our planet”—invites young people to explore and celebrate the central role chemistry plays in sustaining and transforming our world. Our diverse panel brings together leading educators, scientists, communicators and artists who are united by a shared passion for expanding public engagement with chemistry.

🔬 Sarah Chapman

A champion for STEM equity, Sarah Chapman is the founder of STEM Changemakers and the Townsville STEM Hub, initiatives that broaden opportunities for regional and underrepresented students. With two decades of experience as a science educator and department head, Sarah currently serves as Co‑Chair of Women in STEMM Australia and is a Fellow of the RACI.
She received the Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in recognition of her national impact.

📚 Dr James O’Hanlon

A scientist, author and illustrator, Dr James O’Hanlon brings expertise in animal behaviour, ecology and science communication. He creates accessible science books for audiences of all ages and works as a project manager with Animate Your Science.
James’ writing appears widely—including in ABC News, The Guardian, Australian Geographic and BBC Wildlife Magazine. He is an award‑winning communicator and recipient of the 2021 New England Writers Centre Varuna Fellowship.

🎨 Sami Bayly

Based in Newcastle, Sami Bayly is an internationally recognised author and illustrator known for her distinctive watercolour portraits of nature’s most unusual and overlooked organisms. Her award‑winning books celebrate the “weird and wonderful,” encouraging readers to appreciate biodiversity in all its forms.

🧪 Dr Phil Knutson

A chemist and visual artist, Dr Phil Knutson works as a Senior Research Chemist in South Carolina, specialising in polymeric colourants and materials. His artwork, grounded in authentic chemical structures, bridges the connection between scientific concepts and everyday experiences—making chemistry both accessible and visually compelling.

✏️ Dr Emma Rehn

With a background spanning archaeology and Earth sciences, Dr Emma Rehn is a science communicator and illustrator who creates engaging cartoon‑style visuals for research organisations. Her work with groups such as Pint of Science Australia and the Geological Society of Australia helps translate complex science into vibrant, approachable storytelling.

✨ Key Dates for Teachers, Students & Families

• Entries open: 1 August 2026
• Entries close: 5:00 pm AEST, 1 October 2026

This year also marks the introduction of a new Group Artwork Category, accompanied by a $500 AUD prize, encouraging collaborative creativity in classrooms, clubs and community groups.

🌐 Learn More

Full judging criteria, key information, and access to the virtual gallery of 2025 shortlisted entries are available at:
👉 www.raci.org.au/icaac

We look forward to seeing how students around the world interpret “Chemistry powering our planet” through the lens of art. Together, let’s continue to nurture scientific curiosity, creativity and a deeper appreciation for the chemical sciences.

💥🧪🌏