Some of the most respected career and emerging scientists were recognised last night at the 2022 Premier’s Science Awards ceremony.
Science Minister Roger Cook presented Australian Laureate Fellow and John Curtin Distinguished Professor Kliti Grice from Curtin University with the prestigious Scientist of the Year award and a $50,000 prize.
Professor Kliti Grice is an internationally renowned organic geochemist who is highly regarded for her research into the mass extinction events that have shaped life on Earth. Professor Grice’s research has also developed the tools to allow further exploration of the Earth’s record of environmental change.
During the ceremony at Optus Stadium, John Curtin Distinguished Professor Igor Bray from Curtin University became the 17th person to be inducted into the Western Australian Science Hall of Fame.
With an academic career spanning 35 years, Professor Bray is regarded as a world leader in the field of atomic and molecular collision physics, and has been recognised with national and international awards and accolades, including becoming a full professor before the age of 40.
The Premier’s Science Awards were also presented to:
- Professor Ajmal Mian (The University of Western Australia) – Winner of the HBF Mid-Career Scientist of the Year;
- Dr Qi Fang (Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research / The University of Western Australia) – Winner of the Woodside Early Career Scientist of the Year;
- Nikhilesh Bappoo (Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research / The University of Western Australia) and Kathryn Ross (Curtin University) – Joint winners of the ExxonMobil Student Scientist of the Year;
- James Hill (The University of Western Australia / Telethon Kids Institute) and Tahlia Prior (Curtin University) – Joint winners of the Shell Aboriginal STEM Student of the Year; and
- Autism Academy (Curtin University) and Marble Bar Virtual World (Marble Bar Primary School) – Joint winners of the Chevron Science Engagement Initiative of the Year.
Each category has a $10,000 prize.
This year, there were 29 finalists across six different categories from a diverse range of fields including geology, artificial intelligence, astronomy and medicine.
For more information about the Premier’s Science Awards, including the winners and finalists, visit https://www.jtsi.wa.gov.au/ScienceAwards
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
“Western Australia’s scientific achievements grow more impressive each year and in 2022, we have been privileged to recognise some of the most outstanding scientists, STEM students and science engagement initiatives in the State.
“I would like to congratulate the nine winners of the Premier’s Science Awards and the 2022 WA Science Hall of Fame inductee for their contribution to scientific inquiry.
“With science, technology and innovation underpinning diversification of the economy, the Premier’s Science Awards contribute to the State’s commitment to building a globally competitive and innovative workforce, with the capability to drive WA’s future.”
As stated by Science Minister Roger Cook:
“It’s fantastic to see the local talent and achievements showcased through these awards not only for their world-leading research, but also as role models for Western Australians considering careers in STEM.
“From developing novel solutions in artificial intelligence, to a social innovation initiative harnessing the talents of people with autism, the 2022 Premier’s Science Awards reflect the diversity of Western Australia’s contribution to science.
“Since the awards’ inception in 2001, more than 100 awards have been given to Western Australia’s best scientists, STEM students, educators and engagement initiatives.”
