Jordanian-born Hala Zreiqat, a lecturer at the University of Sydney and innovator in biological materials and tissue development, has fostered innovation among her students for years. After working with the Jordanian Air Force, which supported her education for medical service, she moved to Australia, overcoming challenges as an immigrant.

Hala is a Payne-Scott Professor of Biomedical Engineering at The University of Sydney. Her work focuses on creating 3D models of tissues and bones, setting the foundation for future medical advancements. Her biomaterials are now used globally in modern medicine, with her research on regenerative medicine and dental prosthetics transforming the field.

Her accolades include being named a Member of the Order of Australia (2019), New South Wales Premier’s Woman of the Year (2018), and winning the Eureka Prize for Innovative Use of Technology (2019). A leader in biomaterials and tissue engineering, she has published over 170 peer-reviewed papers and advances research on musculoskeletal disorders. Committed to empowering the next generation, she founded BIOTech Futures, The IDEAL Society at Harvard, and chairs ADATE.