Winners of the 25th anniversary of the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science were announced last night at Parliament House in Canberra. The annual award honour Australia’s trailblazing scientists, innovators, and educators.
“Australia has world-class scientists, researchers and teachers,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. “This year’s winners show just how bright the future is for Australian science. On behalf of all Australians, I congratulate the 2024 prize recipients and thank them for their contributions.”
Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic, said: “Science is at the heart of so much of Australia’s way of life – from medicines, to robotics, telecommunications and artificial intelligence. The great ideas and hard work of our scientists and researchers are creating a better life for all Australians. This Government recognises our brilliant science teachers who are inspiring the next generation of Australian scientists. To every young person out there – know that as a scientist, you can make a huge difference to the world and even the universe.”
Prime Minister’s Prize for Science
Professor Matthew Bailes, an astrophysics expert, received the Prime Minister’s Prize for Science for his discovery of fast radio bursts. His pioneering work aids in understanding the universe’s composition by mapping the unseen matter that exists beyond our sight.
Prime Minister’s Prize for Innovation
Professor Andrew F. Wilks and Dr. Chris Burns were honorued with the Prime Minister’s Prize for Innovation for their development and commercialization of momelotinib, a life-saving drug for treating myelofibrosis, a rare form of blood cancer. Their work exemplifies the marriage of scientific research with real-world application, offering new hope to patients.
Frank Fenner Prize for Life Scientist of the Year
Professor Britta Regli-von Ungern-Sternberg was awarded the Frank Fenner Prize for her transformative research in paediatric anaesthesia. Her efforts focus on reducing risks associated with anaesthesia in children, ensuring safer surgeries and recoveries for young patients.
Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year
Distinguished Professor Tianyi Ma from RMIT University received the Malcolm McIntosh Prize for his groundbreaking work in renewable energy. His research is crucial for Australia’s clean energy transition and the pursuit of a net-zero future, underscoring the importance of sustainable technologies.
Prize for New Innovators
Dr. Andrew Horsley, founder of Quantum Brilliance, was recognised with the Prize for New Innovators for his pioneering achievements in quantum computing. His work is pushing the boundaries of this cutting-edge technology, making it more accessible and unlocking its potential across various sectors.
Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools
Mr. Daniel Edwards from Montello Primary School in Tasmania was celebrated for his innovative approach to teaching science. His dedication to providing inclusive and engaging STEM education is inspiring the next generation of young scientists.