Each year, the UQ Alumni Awards recognise outstanding alumni for their remarkable accomplishments in their careers, professions and communities. This year, three members of the UQ Engineering community were recognised among the 2026 award recipients, reflecting the many ways engineering graduates are making a difference in Australia and around the world.
Dr Gabrielle Layton named UQ Alumnus of the Year
Dr Gabrielle Layton (née Kelly) (Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) 1984, Doctor of Philosophy 1994) has been named UQ Alumnus of the Year in recognition of her distinguished achievements across engineering, technology entrepreneurship, public policy and philanthropy.
UQ's first female PhD graduate in Mechanical Engineering, Gabrielle's doctoral research in hypersonic flow and scramjet technology earned international recognition and led to work with NASA. At a time when engineering remained heavily male dominated, her achievements helped pave the way for future generations of women in the profession.
After beginning her career in aerospace research, Gabrielle joined McKinsey & Company, advising clients across Australia, Asia and Europe. She later became Vice-President of Product at CitySearch, a pioneering internet company that helped shape the early digital marketplace.
Today, Gabrielle focuses on philanthropy, research advocacy and public policy, supporting early-career cancer researchers and contributing to initiatives that strengthen communities and improve lives.
Reflecting on the experiences that have shaped her career, Gab said:
"An experience I think everyone should have is one most people naturally encounter anyway: setbacks and adversity. Nobody hopes for adversity, but it's never wasted – it builds empathy, sharpens creativity and makes any eventual win all the more gratifying."
Dr Justin Clarke recognised with Distinguished Young Alumni Award
Dr Justin Clarke (Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) 2020) received a Distinguished Young Alumni Award for transforming personal adversity into influential advocacy, academic excellence and leadership in engineering research.
A former Brisbane Lions AFL player, Justin's professional sporting career ended following a severe concussion at age 22. Since then, he has become a prominent advocate for concussion awareness while pursuing an outstanding academic career in engineering.
After graduating from UQ with honours in mechanical and aerospace engineering and mathematics, Justin was awarded a Rhodes Scholarship and completed a Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering Science at the University of Oxford. He is currently a postdoctoral researcher with the Oxford Thermofluids Institute.
He continues to combine research excellence with leadership and mentoring through sport and advocacy.
Justin reflected on the importance of critical thinking and curiosity in shaping future generations:
"By passing on the ability to think creatively and critically, to learn and question the assumptions underpinning our fundamental understanding of the physical behaviour present all around us, we can help the next generation harness the exciting potential of the world while retaining a human ability to challenge existing models."
Sophie Renton named UQ Graduate of the Year
Sophie Renton (Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) 2025) received a UQ Graduate of the Year Award in recognition of her academic achievement and commitment to community service.
Now a graduate metallurgist, Sophie combined academic excellence with extensive volunteer service through the Queensland State Emergency Service and Disaster Relief Australia, contributing hundreds of hours to emergency response, training, community education and disaster recovery efforts.
During her studies, she also served as Treasurer of the Chemical Engineering Student Society and as a student mentor, helping foster a connected and supportive student community. Her achievements include first-class honours, a University Medal and Dean's Commendations for Academic Excellence throughout her degree.
Reflecting on the perspective engineering has given her, Sophie said:
"Working in mining has given me a unique appreciation for where the things we use every day – and often take for granted – actually come from."
Celebrating engineering impact
From pioneering aerospace research and technology entrepreneurship to engineering research, advocacy and community leadership, this year's recipients showcase the many ways UQ Engineering graduates are contributing to society.
Congratulations to Gabrielle, Justin and Sophie on this well-deserved recognition. Their achievements reflect the talent, leadership and positive impact of the UQ Engineering community.
Read the full story about all 18 UQ Alumni Award recipients: https://news.uq.edu.au/2026-10-transforming-communities-2026-uq-alumni-award-winners
