In a world that was just beginning to appreciate the potential of women in STEM fields, Merle Dunlop Smith emerged as trailblazer. In 1953, at a time when only one in five university students were women, she embarked on her higher education journey. Her unwavering determination led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science with a major in Chemistry, breaking down barriers that had long confined women to the periphery. 

Merle's pursuit of knowledge was deeply rooted in her family's aspirations. Her parents, who had never had the opportunity to pursue education beyond high school, instilled in her the importance of learning and encouraged her to reach for the stars. Their dreams became her driving force, and she was determined to carry the torch of education further and brighter than anyone could have imagined. As the years passed, Merle's career unfolded into the burgeoning field of Clinical Biochemistry, which took her across Australia, working within clinical pathology as a chemist and researcher.  

Image: Merle and Gordon have worked with UWA to create the Brian Dunlop Physics Fellowship.

Passionately believing in the transformative power of education, and together with her son Gordon, she embarked on a mission to empower future generations. In memory of her late husband, Brian Richard Dunlop, Merle and Gordon established a fellowship within the field of physics to support budding researchers in their pursuit of knowledge.  

The late Brian Dunlop was a physics graduate, working as a scientist for the Commonwealth within the X-Ray and Radiation Laboratory in the 1950’s, representing the laboratory during a difficult time of nuclear testing at the Monte Bello Islands, off the coast of north Western Australia. Devastatingly passing away at the early age of 32, Brian’s legacy is now a transformative fellowship that uplifts others to reach their potential.  

This creation of the fellowship was a testament to Merle's dedication to paying it forward, to ensure that others had the opportunities she had cherished. “To see a researcher advancing knowledge with the help of our financial support, partly because of the advantages I had, is reward in itself,” Merle says. 

Brian and Merle’s son, Gordon, had also pursued study within STEM, graduating with an Applied Mathematics Honours degree that featured physics subjects and concepts, many that his father would have studied. Inspired by his time at UWA, Gordons interest in philanthropy began to blossom.  

“To gift in one’s lifetime is such a privilege and brings such a personal reward,” Merle explains. “To be able to work through the process of modifying the deed to ensure the best outcome and know that a scientist is able to concentrate on their research unhampered by lack of financial security.” With these words, Merle encapsulated the essence of her lifelong mission - to empower and uplift, to inspire and enable. 

Image: Gordon Dunlop spoke to the power of giving at the 2023 Winthrop Society High Tea.

Merle Dunlop Smith, a trailblazer in STEM and philanthropic giving, and proof that the indomitable spirit of those who dare to defy conventions, dream big, and make the world a better place for us all.

Merle and Gordon are both leaving a bequest to the Brian Dunlop Physics Fellowship, ensuring its longevity and impact for the next generation of trailblazers.

Legacy giving enables future generations of researchers, innovators and leaders to fulfil their potential. By pledging your support over your lifetime, and leaving a bequest, you are ensuring your generosity, and your story, continues to change the world for decades to come.