Associate Professor Kamath’s research focuses on late-stage stellar evolution in low- and intermediate-mass stars, transforming the field by accurately quantifying element production, which informs next-generation stellar models and supports future extragalactic studies, including those with the 24-metre Giant Magellan Telescope, where Australia is a key partner. Additionally, A/Prof Kamath’s research on unravelling novel planetary formation environments around dying stars reshapes our understanding of planet formation and will guide future exoplanet observational studies using facilities like VLTI/GRAVITY+ and ELT/METIS.

A/Prof Kamath has been instrumental in advancing Australia’s engagement with the European Southern Observatory (ESO), beginning with the government’s 2017 strategic partnership. She currently serves as an Expert member of the ESO Time Allocation Committee, allocating competitive telescope time to the international community, and previously represented Australia on the ESO Users Committee (2022–2023). She has also held expert roles on the Hubble Space Telescope and Anglo-Australian Telescope TACs. Importantly, as Chair of the Astronomical Society of Australia’s Inclusion, Diversity and Equity in Astronomy (IDEA) Chapter (2022–present), she provides national leadership in embedding equity, diversity, and inclusivity in astronomy, shaping policy and initiatives that influence both Australian and international communities.

At Macquarie, A/Prof Kamath is Director of Engagement for the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, leading the School’s outreach portfolio, driving employability initiatives, and advising on the operation of the Macquarie Observatory. She has deputised as Acting Head of School at multiple intervals in 2024 and serves on the Heads Advisory Committee, contributing to strategic decision-making.

Her achievements have been recognised through numerous awards, including the Teachers Guild of NSW Honorary Fellowship (2023), the AIP NSW Community Outreach to Physics Award (2022), the NSW Young Tall Poppy Award (2021), and recognition as a Superstar of STEM (2019). Since joining Macquarie in 2017, she has attracted more than A$7.5M in competitive funding, including an ARC DECRA and a lead-CI ARC Discovery Project. She is also deeply committed to training and mentoring the next generation of researchers, with successful PhD and Master’s completions and a thriving cohort of HDR students under her supervision.