Jamie Erak, at just 18 years old, has been named Western Australia’s 2026 Rhodes Scholar, the latest step in a path that started when he began university at only 14.
The physics honours student, who works with Curtin’s institute of Theoretical Physics and is a strong advocate for students with autism in higher education, was announced as WA’s Rhodes Scholar at Government House last week Friday after a rigorous selection process. He will head to Oxford University in September next year to undertake fully funded postgraduate studies, joining more than 100 scholars from around the world.
The teen said his early years of home education taught him to explore ideas through reading, but he found himself wanting more.
“I love reading, but I quickly reached a level where I felt ready to move forward, and I was craving more discussions,” he said.
“When I met three professors at Curtin who suggested I begin my degree there, I was very eager and excited to take that opportunity.”
That opportunity has grown into a passion for physics that now takes him to the heart of one of the world’s most prestigious academic programs.
According to Jamie, physics is the only path he could imagine.
“Physics seeks to answer some of the greatest questions about the universe, such as understanding the fundamental laws that give rise to it all,” he said.
“For theoretical physics specifically, Stephen Hawking’s books were a big inspiration for me.”
He is currently completing his honours project at Curtin’s Institute of Theoretical Physics, and also working on research into proton collisions with hydrogen molecules.
Earlier this year, he coauthored his first published paper with his supervisors, building on work he presented at two international conferences in Japan.
Curtin Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne said Jamie’s selection was a proud moment for the university.
“Jamie’s success is a moment of real inspiration for both students and staff at Curtin,” Professor Hayne said.
“His selection as a Rhodes Scholar reflects his remarkable talent and determination and adds to his growing lists of accolades, including receiving Curtin’s Don Watts High Achiever Scholarship. We wish him all the very best as he begins this exciting new chapter at Oxford.”
Jamie admits, though, that the competitive Rhodes selection process was daunting.
“I’m extremely uncomfortable with competitive cultures, and to participate in one felt against my nature,” he said.
“I felt much better after meeting the selectors and other finalists, who are kind and incredible people. I learned to focus on how much I could learn from them, which helped me enjoy the experience.”
Alongside his academic achievements, Jamie has become a strong advocate for autistic students in higher education.
He credits the Curtin Specialist Mentoring Program and his access plan with helping him manage the challenges of exams and university life.
“The wise advice and support of my mentors have been invaluable,” he said.
“I also wish to acknowledge the incredible kindness and understanding of my supervisors, lecturers, and fellow students, who have made my time at Curtin some of the best years of my life.”
Jamie hopes universities everywhere will expand programs that support neurodivergent students, while also raising awareness of both the struggles and the strengths that come with autism.
Encouraging younger autistic students who share his love of science, he said: “Take whatever opportunities you can and pursue your love of science as far you desire. Most importantly, make sure to enjoy what you do.”
The journey has not always been easy. Leaving school was met with criticism, and Jamie admits there were times he doubted himself.
“I didn’t know whether I’d ever be able to go to university,” he said. “I got through those times by going back to basics. I would go for walks in nature, talk with my family, and read books. I still enjoyed learning that way.”
It is his parents who usually get the first call when good news arrives.
“During the parts of my journey where I struggled most, they were struggling too,” he said.
“Their journeys have been connected with mine most closely, so it makes sense for them to hear good news first.”
Moving forward, Jamie hopes his work in theoretical physics will bring the world closer to a breakthrough in understanding the universe, while also making a difference for autistic students who will follow. He plans to begin a DPhil in Theoretical Physics at Oxford in 2026.
“Given the opportunity, I would be delighted to return to WA,” he said.
“The fundamental theoretical physics community in Australia is still growing, and I would hope to contribute to that as an academic.”
The Rhodes Scholarships are among the oldest and most competitive international fellowships in the world, recognising young people who combine academic excellence with exceptional character, leadership and a commitment to tackling humanity’s biggest challenges. Past recipients have included former world leaders Bob Hawke and Bill Clinton. Each year, nine Rhodes Scholars from Australia are selected, with one from each state ad three chosen nationally.
