How do we know how many fish are in the ocean? That’s the question Alise Fox tackles every day as a stock assessment scientist. Using mathematics, statistics, marine science and computer programming, she pieces together clues hidden in huge datasets to tell the story of what’s happening underwater. Her work helps inform fishery management so that fishing levels remain sustainable, securing food, jobs, and a healthy ocean for the future.

Alise didn’t always know she wanted to count fish. With a background in mathematics, she’s explored biomechanics, pavement engineering, been a high school teacher and university lecturer, and even performed stand-up comedy.  She’s passionate about demonstrating the unexpected paths careers can take, and the diverse opportunities that STEM offers...especially from her perspective as a neurodivergent woman who never decided what she wanted to be when she grew up.

Today, alongside her scientific work, Alise tells stories about science in many forms. From painting animals in watercolour, to speaking for Vogue Australia, to travelling with the Flying Scientists program and bringing hands-on STEM games to regional communities, she shows that science can be creative, fun, and accessible to everyone. She also advocates for inclusivity and representation in STEM, sharing her lived experiences to open doors for others. Her efforts have been recognised with a Highly Commended award in the 2022 Queensland Women in STEM Prize and the 2025 Emerging Science Star Award from Women in Technology (Queensland).