The hunt is underway for Australia’s top scientists, innovators and science, technology, engineering and maths teachers, and people in the South West are being encouraged to step forward.
Forrest MP Nola Marino is urging members of the community to nominate local scientists, innovators and teachers for the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science.
“There is a lot of great work being done in the South West to inspire our future generations to choose a STEM path and career,” she said.
“I look forward to the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science and know that those in the scientific, educational and innovative South West community will be strong contenders.”
Award winners will share in $750,000 worth of prizes in seven categories including two, which recognise excellence in science teaching in primary and secondary schools.
Last year’s recipient Professor Jenny Graves AO was recognised for her pioneering research into mammalian genome organisation and evolution, which will help to progress understanding of X and Y chromosomes, our immune system, and the human brain.
Guidelines for the Excellence in Science Teaching prizes have been broadened this year to include mathematics and technology teachers for the first time, as well as part-time teachers.
“These awards recognise the extraordinary contribution that Australia's scientists and teachers make to our nation, not only through their world-leading research but also as role models for young people considering careers in science, technology, engineering or mathematics,” Mrs Marino said.
Nominations are now open for this year’s awards.
For more information visit business.gov.au/scienceprizes.