Western Australia is buzzing with scientific brilliance, and the Premier’s Science Awards are here to celebrate it. These awards recognise outstanding achievements in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) across various categories. This year, something exciting has been added to the mix: the People’s Choice Award!
The People’s Choice Award allows everyone to vote for their favourite finalist, whether it’s a cosmic explorer, a classroom hero, or a STEM champion. Visit the People’s Choice Award page to show your support. Voting closes at midday on Friday, August 16, 2024. Get in quick!
Who Are the Finalists?
34 exceptional individuals and programs have made it to the finals. Among them are scientists, STEM educators, students, and engagement initiatives that have pushed the boundaries of knowledge and innovation. From groundbreaking research to inspiring teaching, these finalists represent the best of WA’s scientific community.
Scientist of the Year Finalists
Professor Jacqueline Batley: The University of Western Australia
Professor Aleksandra Filipovska: The University of Western Australia and Telethon Kids Institute
John Curtin Distinguished Professor Sharon Parker: Curtin University
Professor Markus Schlaich: The University of Western Australia – Royal Perth Hospital and RPH Research Foundation
Mid-Career Scientist of the Year Finalists
Professor Morten Erik: Allentoft Curtin University
Associate Professor Elisabete da Cunha: International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research, The University of Western Australia
Associate Professor Gianina Ravenscroft: Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and The University of Western Australia
Associate Professor Sascha Schediwy: The University of Western Australia
Early Career Scientist of the Year Finalists
Dr Eleanor Dunlop: Deakin University and Curtin University
Dr Lucy Furfaro: The University of Western Australia
Dr Pamela Laird: Telethon Kids Institute
Dr Kieran Mulroney: Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and The University of Western Australia
Dr David Preece: Curtin University
Dr Neil Robinson: The University of Western Australia
Student Scientist of the Year Finalists
Stephanie Enkel: Telethon Kids Institute and The University of Western Australia
Somayra Mamsa: The University of Western Australia
Nicola Principe: The University of Western Australia
Tamara Veselinović: Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia
Aboriginal STEM Student of the Year Finalists
Brodie O’Breza: Curtin University
Jaida Penny: Telethon Kids Institute and The University of Western Australia
Amos Dinny Tjampitjinpa Smith: The University of Western Australia
Dakota Winter: The University of Western Australia
STEM Educator of the Year (Schools) Finalists
Nathan Curnow: John Curtin College of the Arts
Annabel Kanakis: Bunbury Catholic College
Dr Roslyn London: Balga Senior High School
Larissa Waghorn: South Thornlie Primary School
Stephen Warwick: Ashdale Secondary College
STEM Educator of the Year (Tertiary) Finalists
Associate Professor Zoe Richards: Curtin University and Western Australian Museum
Dr Pejman Rowshan Farzad: The University of Western Australia
Dr Alexandra Yeung: Curtin University
Science Engagement Initiative of the Year Finalists
Australian Marine Debris Initiative: Tangaroa Blue Foundation
Broome Festival of STEM: Telethon Kids Institute
Einstein-First: The University of Western Australia
Seeds for Snapper: Ozfish Unlimited – Fremantle Chapter
The Grand Reveal
Mark your calendars! The winners across all award categories, including the People’s Choice Award, will be announced at the 2024 Premier’s Science Awards ceremony on Monday, August 19, 2024.