Prime Minister's Prizes for Science 2023

Nominations are open for the 2023 Prime Minister's Prizes for Science (the Prizes).

From now until 9 February 2023, you can nominate your leader, mentor, employee, colleague or peer for one of 7 prestigious awards in scientific research, research-based innovation and excellence in science teaching.

The Prizes recognise the achievements of scientists, innovators and science teachers across diverse disciplines and career stages.

Nominating is easy. You just need to:

  • ensure your nominee is an Australian citizen or permanent resident of Australia
  • provide a short summary of your nominee’s achievements
  • supply contact details of two supporters and two independent referees for the nomination, and supporting documentation.

Some prize categories may also require contact details of two independent referees in addition to supporters.

Depending on the category, prize recipients receive up to $250,000 in prize money and have the opportunity to showcase their scientific discovery, commercial venture or teaching achievements nationally.

Importantly, their achievements are inspirational - encouraging people of all ages and all parts of the community to continue to pursue their goals in science, innovation and teaching, and help young people realise the variety of exciting careers on offer in STEM fields.

Nominate for the Prizes

Help us uncover outstanding achievers in the community by nominating someone today: 

Nominations close at 5pm AEDT on Thursday 9 February 2023.

Hello. I’m Cathy Foley, Australia’s Chief Scientist.



Nominations are now open for the 2023 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science.



And I’m encouraging those of you in the research, science, innovation and education communities who is doing outstanding work.



Australian scientists are world class, and their work brings immense benefit both here in Australia and across the globe.



Science and research build knowledge and understanding of how the world works unlocking new capabilities and enabling technological development to improve lives.



The prizes recognise the contribution of these scientists with a range of categories including those of early to mid-career professionals in both scientific research and research-based innovation roles.



They also acknowledge the critical role of teachers with prizes for primary and secondary teachers in science, mathematics or technology.



The best teachers introduce our children to the joy of discovery and influence their experience of science and maths as they establish their paths forward.



Teachers quite literally help shape our nation’s future.



The Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science are Australia’s most prestigious science awards and they should reflect the full diversity of our science, research, innovation and teaching communities.



I encourage you to think broadly when nominating someone, to ensure this diversity is captured.



As chair of the selection panel, I’m looking forward to seeing the nominations that come forward. This is one of my roles that I find most inspiring.



So thank you and I’m looking forward to some great nominations.

 

Hear from some of the 2022 nominators 

“Professor Trevor McDougall’s impact on the field has been transformative. His theoretical work has frequently overturned century-held assumptions of how the ocean works. Moreover, he not only finds the past weaknesses, but provides simple and accurate ways forward.”

Professor Matthew England FAA, Scientia Professor, UNSW Sydney nominated Professor Trevor McDougall AC, recipient of the 2022 Prime Minister’s Prize for Science. 

“Over the past decade I have witnessed Dr Philippa Karoly grow from a research assistant into a formidable leader, world-class orator and thought leader across neuroscience, academia and industry. Dr Karoly’s breadth of clinical, commercial and academic acumen have enabled her outstanding scientific and technological achievements in seizure forecasting, leading to direct medical, economic and research benefits.”

Professor Mark Cook, Clinical Director, Graeme Clark Institute nominated Dr Pip Karoly, recipient of the 2022 Prize for New Innovators. 

“Marble Bar Primary School’s geographical isolation has been overcome by Mr George Pantazis leading a network that is showcasing the East Pilbara’s culturally responsive pedagogy to a global audience. Mr Pantazis has set an exceptionally high standard in Australian STEM education, with a greater proportion of students achieving the expected standard of achievement in STEM.”

Shane Wilson, School Principal, Marble Bar Primary School nominated Mr George Pantazis, recipient of the 2022 Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools. 

More information

Find out more about the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science
Read more about the 2022 Prize recipients