After 48 years of unwavering service WA Museum Executive Director of Collections and Research, Diana Jones has retired and will continue her valuable research work as a WA Museum Research Associate.
Diana, or Di as she is more affectionately known, has been a trail blazer for women in science in Western Australia and around the globe.
Di's journey began in the post-WW2 era, where her childhood explorations sparked a lifelong passion for natural science. Her academic pursuits led her to an open scholarship in Biological Sciences at the University of Birmingham, UK. Despite facing challenges, including a male-dominated work culture in Western Australia, Di's determination saw her rise through the ranks at the WA Museum.
Starting as a part-time Graduate Research Assistant in 1977, Di's career flourished. She became a full-time Curator of Crustacea in 1988, head of Aquatic Zoology, and eventually the Executive Director of Collections and Research. Alongside her museum roles, Di also taught at the University of Western Australia and served as the Museum’s Senior Grievance and Sexual Harassment Officer, advocating for women's rights in the workplace.
Di's notable projects include the bilingual Baudin exhibition and the long-standing partnership with Woodside Energy Ltd. Her work on the Marine Life of the Dampier Archipelago and the Kimberley Project highlighted her vision and dedication to biodiversity research. These projects involved international collaboration and led to the discovery of thousands of new species.
Her leadership was instrumental in the successful relocation of the Museum's collections to the Collections and Research Centre at Welshpool and the opening of the Harry Butler Research Centre.
Di's expertise has been recognised globally, serving on numerous committees and advisory panels, and authoring over a hundred scientific papers.
In recognition of her contributions, Di was awarded the Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia in 2022. As she transitions to a Research Associate role, we celebrate her legacy and the profound impact she has had on the WA Museum and the field of natural science.
Di, your dedication and achievements have inspired many. Thank you for your exceptional service.
