Cosmos
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By Cosmos
The Australian Museum’s annual Eureka Prize finalists have been announced ahead of their August prize-giving.
The awards recognise exceptional contributors to science in Australia across 19 categories. 55 individual and institutional nominees have been shortlisted for the awards, which mark their 33rd edition in 2023.
“The Eureka Prizes shine a spotlight on the critical role Australian scientists play at the forefront of discovery and innovation,” Australian Museum director Kim McKay AO said at the shortlist announcement.
“These extraordinary minds are not just advancing our collective knowledge, but they are also deeply committed to creating a better future for us all.
“Their relentless pursuit of scientific excellence is directly addressing pressing global issues, demonstrating that Australian science is an influential driver of global progress.”
Among the 10 flagship research and innovation awards are nominees working in water quality and monitoring, planet ecosystem monitoring and conservation, research software development, antibody treatment, cancer treatments, COVID-19 research, clean energy, nano, microbial and health technology and national security.
Among the nominees are orchid researcher Noushka Reiter, open-source software GPlates, circular economy researcher Ali Abbas, the IMAGENDO project, carbon conversion scientist Fengwang Li and nanotech researcher Noushin Nasiri.
Scientists from the University of Sydney account for five of the eight nominees for the Eureka leadership awards, which among outright leadership in science and innovation also recognise mentors and emerging science leaders.
Four engagement-themed awards covering citizen science, science journalism, popular education and inclusion will also be awarded. Among the nominees are former Cosmos contributors Jo Chandler, Lila Landowski, and Toby Walsh, as well as Cosmos Australian Mammal of the Year science collaborator Euan Ritchie.
Vote for your favourite Australian Mammal of the Year
Four school students from New South Wales, and one each from Victoria and Tasmania were each shortlisted for ‘Sleek Geeks’ prizes for young science communicators. For the 2023 Eureka Prizes, entrants were required to submit short videos to a ‘green’ theme.
A full list of nominees for the 2023 Eureka Prize is available here.