Australia’s top scientists, innovators and educators have been recognised in the 2025 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science, celebrating the country’s diverse contributions to global research and discovery.
Distinguished Professor Lidia Morawska received the Prime Minister’s Prize for Science for her pioneering work in air quality research, which provided critical insight during the fight against COVID-19 and redefined international standards in public health policy.
Dr Vikram Sharma was awarded the Prime Minister’s Prize for Innovation for translating Australian quantum research into cybersecurity solutions. As founder of Canberra-based QuintessenceLabs, Dr Sharma has helped position Australia as a leader in the emerging quantum technology sector.
The inaugural Prime Minister’s Prize for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Knowledge Systems went to Professor Michael Wear, a Malgana Traditional Custodian from Shark Bay in Western Australia. Professor Wear was recognised for his work in applying Aboriginal knowledge systems to Sea Country conservation and sustainable marine industries. He founded Tidal Moon, Australia’s first Indigenous-owned sea cucumber fishery and marine restoration enterprise.
In education, Paula Taylor received the Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools for transforming STEM learning across the ACT. Through her work at the Academy of Future Skills, she has engaged over 10,000 students and 480 teachers with hands-on science programs.
Matt Dodds, a teacher at Glen Innes High School in New South Wales, was honoured with the Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools. His creative methods have expanded STEM participation among rural and female students, inspiring many to pursue science careers.
Other recipients include Professor Yao Zheng, awarded the Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year for his work on producing clean hydrogen directly from seawater; Dr David Khoury, who received the Frank Fenner Prize for Life Scientist of the Year for his mathematical modelling in vaccine and drug development; and Dr Nikhilesh Bappoo, winner of the Prize for New Innovators for developing affordable medical technologies that improve access to healthcare.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the awards showcase Australia’s global scientific impact. “Australia is a powerhouse of science, innovation and research which has a global impact—as is evident by the recognition of the work of Distinguished Professor Lidia Morawska,” he said. “I congratulate and thank Professor Morawska for her incredible work over many years which influenced how Australia and the world mitigated risks associated with COVID-19. I extend that congratulations and thanks to all recipients.”
Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres said the prizes reflect the government’s commitment to building a skilled, research-driven economy. “Science, research, and innovation are core to the Albanese Government’s vision for Australia,” he said. “Teachers like Paula Taylor and Matt Dodds ignite a passion in our young people to pursue a career in STEM—paving the way for a skilled workforce of the future.”
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