The Chief Scientist for Australia, Professor Penny D Sackett, has today called for nominations for the annual Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science.

• 12 April 2010

“The Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science recognise the life-long commitment and achievements of the recipients and provide a wonderful and necessary example to upcoming young scientists, as well as reminding all of us of the role science plays in our everyday lives,” Professor Sackett said.

Past recipients include Professor Elizabeth Blackburn, Australia’s first female Nobel Laureate, who recently visited Australia, and Dr. John O’Sullivan whose work provided the foundations for the invention of WiFi internet.

“The value of the contributions made by these Australians is immeasurable, but certainly they have benefited the lives of us all, and will continue to do so for generations to come.  I look forward to meeting the 2010 recipients and learning about what extraordinary and vital projects their research will underpin.

Prizes are awarded in 5 categories:

• Prime Minister’s Prize for Science ($300,000) (awarded to an individual or up to four individuals jointly)
• Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year ($50,000)
• Science Minister’s Prize for Life Scientist of the Year ($50,000)
• Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools ($50,000)
• Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools ($50,000)

“These awards provide a rare opportunity for our most inspiring science teachers who dedicate their lives to nurture the next generation of scientists, to stand alongside those career researchers directly involved with improving our collective knowledge and international competitiveness in science.

“Rarely are the teachers of science, as well as the pioneers recognised within a single evening, yet both are vital to Australia’s continued prosperity and the advancement of our scientific future.

“It would be my hope that the names of the Prize Winners are as recognised as those of Australia’s great sports heroes,” Professor Sackett said.

Nominations for the awards close Friday 21 May 2010 at 5:00 p.m. AEST.  To nominate someone online or for more information, please visit https://grants.innovation.gov.au/SciencePrize/Pages/Home.aspx

For more information on Australia’s Chief Scientist, visit http://www.chiefscientist.gov.au/

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Media Contact: Rebecca Richter, Office of the Chief Scientist, Mobile: 0410 029 407