Harvey Millar and Christobel Saunders have been jointly named scientist of the year at the Premier’s Science Awards for 2017, winning the approval of a judging panel led by Western Australia’s chief scientist, Peter Klinken.
Harvey Millar and Christobel Saunders have been jointly named scientist of the year at the Premier’s Science Awards for 2017, winning the approval of a judging panel led by Western Australia’s chief scientist, Peter Klinken.
This year marks the awards’ 16th iteration, and the first time the $50,000 prize has been shared.
The judges said the decision to jointly award the title was made, in part, because of the distinctly different natures of Professor Millar and Professor Saunders’ fields of work.
Professor Millar is an award-winning leader in plant science research with a focus on the function of proteins that enhance the energy efficiency of plants in harsh environments.
His research on wheat and barley is opening new opportunities in crop improvement directly relevant to WA industries.
Professor Saunders is a consultant surgeon at Royal Perth, St John of God and Fiona Stanley hospitals, and professor of surgical oncology at the University of Western Australia.
She has been a driving force behind innovation in the development of new technologies, including microscope-in-a-needle, and has substantially contributed to clinical aspects of breast cancer research.
Premier Mark McGowan commended both winners as drivers behind scientific progress and innovation coming out of WA.
“Professors Millar and Saunders both embody the very best of Western Australian aptitude and innovation, and have national leadership roles in their respective fields of plant science, and cancer research and treatment,” Mr McGowan said.
“They are also working actively to educate the next generation of Western Australian scientific researchers and practitioners.”
Other winners were: Asha Bowen, who was named Woodside early career scientist of the year; David Gozzard, who won ExxonMobil student scientist of the year; and CoderDojo, who received the WA Chevron science engagement initiative of the year award.
Each of the winners received $10, 000 prize money.
“CoderDojo was also recognised for its work to recruit the next generation of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) professionals through its open-source network of fun, free and social computer programming clubs for people aged seven to 17,” Science Minister Dave Kelly said.
UWA vice-chancellor Dawn Freshwater congratulated the recipients for their significant achievements and contribution to science.
“The university is delighted that the outstanding work of our scientists has been recognised in the Premier’s Science Awards,” Professor Freshwater said.
ExxonMobil, Chevron and Woodside continued to sponsor the awards for 2017, as they have since 2013.
