Nominations are now open for the 2023 ACT Emerging Scientist of the Year Award. The winner will receive a $30,000 prize from the ACT Government.
The award is open to individuals in basic or applied research in all fields of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM). To be eligible, scientists must have completed their PhD in the past ten years, and be conducting research in the ACT.
The annual award, established in 2010, “celebrates the exceptional scientific research and innovation that happens every day in the ACT, and the important role that science plays in our community”, Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.
“The award highlights the incredible achievements of scientists in our community such as 2022’s Emerging Scientist of the Year, Dr Benjamin Schwessinger, who was recognised for his ongoing commitment to supporting the environment and his work responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.”
- ACT Emerging Scientist of the Year announced (19 August 2022)
Dr Schwessinger is a Senior Lecturer at the Australian National University, specialising in the intersect of pathogen genomics and biosecurity. He investigates fungi that infect plants and cause disease, and the effect they have on Australia’s agriculture and environment. His team tested the genomes of COVID-19 samples, which helped to track the transmission of the virus.
“I was exhilarated to receive this award because it recognises my desire to do cutting edge research with local and global impact for the common good,” Dr Schwessinger said.
“The recognition and award money were a good motivation to follow my values. It provided me with a unique opportunity to incorporate more Indigenous engagement into our ANU biosecurity course. It also enabled me to forge new collaborations with our Pacific Island neighbours, to work on increasing our biosecurity together.”
Other recipients include scientists researching the impacts of climate change, the quantum internet, and plants’ ability to sense drought stress.
The 2023 ACT Scientist of the Year will be announced in August to coincide with National Science Week (12-20 August).
Mr Barr encouraged all emerging scientists to apply for the award and “showcase the effort and diligence they put into their research”.
Nominations close Sunday 18 June.
