Australia’s top scientists, innovators and educators have been recognised in the 2025 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science.
From redefining air quality science to advancing quantum cybersecurity, and this year, for the first time, honouring the deep knowledge systems of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, this year’s recipients highlight the diverse talent driving Australia’s scientific excellence and inspiring the next generation.
Prime Minister’s Prize for Science: Distinguished Professor Lidia Morawska, whose pioneering work in the study of air quality provided vital insight in the fight against the spread of COVID-19. Her work has redefined the science of air quality and reshaped policy advice to vastly improve how the world mitigates health risks of air pollution.
Prime Minister’s Prize for Innovation: Dr Vikram Sharma, recognised for translating Australian research in quantum science into world-leading cyber security solutions. In 2008, Dr Sharma founded QuintessenceLabs in Canberra, a leader in Australia’s growing national quantum industry.
The inaugural recipient for the Prime Minister’s Prize for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Knowledge Systems: Professor Michael Wear, a Malgana Traditional Custodian of Shark Bay (Gutharraguda) in Western Australia.
Professor Wear is recognised for improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ livelihoods through the respectful practice of Aboriginal knowledge systems for Sea Country conservation and sustainable commercial activities. He is the founder of Tidal Moon, Australia’s first Indigenous-owned and led sea cucumber fishery and marine restoration enterprise.
Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools: Mrs Paula Taylor for transforming STEM education in ACT primary schools. Mrs Taylor brings to the classroom innovative, real-life learning experiences that engage students of all abilities and inspire a lifelong passion for science.
She has worked with more than 10,000 students and 480 classroom teachers in her role at the ACT Education Directorate’s Academy of Future Skills.
Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools: Mr Matt Dodds. The award recognises his creative teaching methods to equip students from rural areas and diverse backgrounds with the STEM knowledge and skills they need to thrive in their futures.
Mr Dodds has dramatically increased the number of female students studying physics at Glen Innes High School in NSW and inspired many students into further STEM study and careers.
Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year: Professor Yao Zheng. This is in recognition of Professor Zheng’s groundbreaking work to produce clean hydrogen directly from seawater, helping to accelerate Australia’s green hydrogen industry in the transition to net zero.
Frank Fenner Prize for Life Scientist of the Year: Dr David Khoury. Dr Khoury is recognised for using applied mathematics to translate scientific research into actionable evidence. These outcomes have guided drug development for malaria and vaccine policies for COVID-19 and mpox.
Prize for New Innovators: Dr Nikhilesh Bappoo for developing novel and accessible medical technologies, including ultrasound-based technology to aid cannulation and solutions to help prevent heart disease. He is driven by his vision of a world where no life is lost because healthcare was too complex, too late or out of reach.
Congratulations
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, ‘Each year the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science highlight our country’s exceptional achievements. 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.
‘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, ‘Science, research, and innovation are core to the Albanese Government’s vision for Australia. Congratulations to all recipients and nominees for their incredible work contributing towards better outcomes in Australia and globally.
‘Science and research are essential to Australia’s future economic growth, and 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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