Bureau researchers nominated finalists for Eureka Prize
Bureau of Meteorology researchers are in the running to win a prestigious Eureka Prize.
Seasonal and Marine Applications Team Leader Dr Claire Spillman and Senior Research Scientist Dr Grant Smith, together with Dr Alistair Hobday and Jason Hartog from the CSIRO, are nominated for their work on developing new long-range marine heatwave forecasts.
Dr Spillman said the nomination for the 2026 NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water Eureka Prize for Environmental Research recognises work aiming to provide greater insights into climate risks faced by Australia’s natural environment.
“The research title – Marine heatwave forecasting to inform decision making in a warming ocean – highlights the importance of the work we started in 2020 with it being recognised that marine heatwaves can significantly impact ecosystems, fisheries and coastal communities,” Dr Spillman said.
“The research pathway culminated in December 2025 with the launch of operational long-range marine heatwave forecasts for Australia. New operational forecasts will give users a vital preparation window – supporting smarter decisions in a warming ocean.
“The Eureka Prize nomination is great recognition for the collaborative work between the Bureau and the CSIRO.”
The Eureka Prize panel praised the research for its originality and significance, scientific rigor, and impact.
“Internationally, the project has positioned Australia as a world leader in marine heatwave forecasting and end user engagement,” the panel said.
“Agencies in New Zealand, the UK Met Office, and Singapore have expressed keen interest in adopting similar approaches. The team has addressed requests from Pacific meteorological services and media and been invited to present at major global forums and international conferences, which has boosted understanding for others working in related fields.
“The work has been profiled by the World Meteorological Organization, included in Australia’s State of the Climate reporting, and in the journal Science.”
Winners will be named on Thursday, 3 September.
