Eureka Prize finalists announced

CSIRO Chief Executive Dr Geoff Garrett has congratulated the finalists announced 27 July for the Eureka Prize for Leadership in Science sponsored by CSIRO.

Garrett said the finalists are outstanding scientists and have shown sustained leadership and commitment to science over a long period. The three finalists are:

• Professor Robert Clark, director, Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computer Technology The University of New South Wales, NSW. For leadership shown in the creation and success of the Centre for Quantum Computer Technology.
• Professor Levon Khachigian, NHMRC senior principal research fellow, president, Australian Society for Medical Research, The University of New South Wales, NSW. For outstanding commitment to the future and sustainability of health and medical research in Australia.
• Professor John Mattick, director, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, QLD. For scientific leadership, organisational vision, and exemplary commitment in the establishment and development of the Australian Genome Research Facility and the Institute for Molecular Bioscience.

The Australian Museum Eureka Prizes reward outstanding achievements in Australian science. The prizes are awarded in four categories: research, leadership and innovation, education and science communication. The prizes (except the People's Choice Award) are judged by scientific experts and most carry a cash reward of $10,000.

Begun in 1990, the Australian Museum Eureka Prizes have become Australia's premier science awards and the country's largest single national award scheme for research into critical environmental and sustainability issues facing Australia.

The 2006 Eureka Prize winners will be announced 22 August.