Full Breakdown
Recognition of Scientific Excellence at the Prime Minister's Prizes for Science
11/4/2025, 10:26:29 PM
Celebrating Pioneering Research in Air Quality
Distinguished Professor Lidia Morawska, an aerosol physicist from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), has been awarded the $250,000 Prime Minister's Prize for Science for her groundbreaking research on air quality and its implications for public health. Morawska gained international recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic for her efforts in highlighting the airborne transmission of the virus, which led to significant changes in health guidelines by the World Health Organization (WHO). Her work involved rallying 239 scientists globally to advocate for the acknowledgment of airborne transmission, a crucial factor in mitigating the spread of COVID-19.
Morawska's research focuses on ultrafine particles, which are pollutants significantly smaller than PM2.5 and can penetrate deep into the human respiratory system. She emphasized the need for regulations concerning indoor air quality, stating that over 90% of people's time is spent indoors, making it critical for health standards to be established in these environments.
Honoring Indigenous Knowledge Systems
In a notable addition to this year's awards, Professor Michael Wear received the inaugural Prime Minister's Prize for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Knowledge Systems. A Malgana traditional custodian from Shark Bay, Western Australia, Wear was recognized for his marine conservation initiatives, including founding Tidal Moon, Australia's first Indigenous-owned sea cucumber fishery. This enterprise not only aims to restore seagrass beds devastated by a marine heatwave but also provides training for Indigenous divers, integrating traditional knowledge with modern conservation practices.
Wear expressed his hope that his recognition would inspire further involvement of Aboriginal people in scientific endeavors, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous perspectives in environmental management.
Broader Implications and Other Awardees
The Prime Minister's Prizes for Science, now in their 26th year, also honored several other scientists for their contributions to various fields. Professor Yao Zheng from the University of Adelaide was awarded for his work in producing clean hydrogen from seawater, while Dr. Vikram Sharma of QuintessenceLabs was recognized for translating quantum science into cybersecurity solutions. Additionally, Paula Taylor received the Prime Minister's Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching for her innovative approaches to STEM education in primary schools.
Official Statements and Responses
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Morawska for her influential work, stating, “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.” Minister for Science Tim Ayres also highlighted the significance of recognizing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander contributions to science, commending Wear's efforts in marine conservation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If we operate individually, it’s very easy to reject us … but eventually, the voice of a large scientific body, which can be respected, hopefully will make a difference.” — Lidia Morawska, Queensland University of Technology
- “At the heart of it is that you know it gives another perspective, a viewpoint on how we view knowledge and how the systems are implemented," Professor Wear said.” — Michael Wear, Tidal Moon
- “I’m happy to be the first [recipient],” — Michael Wear, Tidal Moon
The Prime Minister's Prizes for Science serve to highlight the exceptional achievements of Australian scientists and educators, reinforcing the importance of scientific inquiry and Indigenous knowledge in addressing contemporary challenges.
