Nominations open for Prime Minister's Prizes for Science

Australia's chief scientist, Professor Penny Sackett, has called for nominations for the annual Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science.

“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,” said Sackett.

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.

Prizes are awarded in five categories:

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

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 the Prime Minister's Prizes for Science website.