Interview with Dr Barbara Kidman – one of the first women to achieve a Doctorate in Physics (1956)

Abstract

Dr Barbara Kidman began her association with the university as a student of Physics in the 1940s, ultimately achieving a First Class Honours Degree and a PhD. After studying at Oxford University for 3 years Dr Kidman returned to Adelaide and moved into the new (for the time) area of computing. Alongside her husband, Professor Ren Potts, Barbara made a significant contribution to the development of Computer Science at the University over the next 20 years. A desire to build upon Barbara’s achievements led to the creation of the University of Adelaide Barbara Kidman Women’s Fellowship Scheme, which provides financial support for up to 8 female academics per year to enhance and promote their research and careers.