Nominations for the NSW Scientist of the Year now open

Nominations are being called for the 2009 NSW Scientist of the Year Awards.

Minister for Science and Medical Research Jodi McKay said the 2009 awards recognise and reward research that has a practical application and the ability to deliver economic, health, environmental or technological benefits to NSW.

“These awards are now amongst the richest science awards in the country and represent a strong commitment to rewarding innovative science and research in NSW,” Ms McKay said.

"This year’s awards will cover six categories with $5000 in prize money awarded to each category winner as well as an overall NSW Scientist of the Year award valued at $55,000.” The six award categories for 2009 include:

• Environment, water and climate change sciences
• Physics, earth sciences, chemistry and astronomy
• Biomedical sciences
• Plant and animal sciences
• Engineering, mathematics and computer sciences
• Leadership in teaching secondary science and mathematics.

"I strongly encourage outstanding scientific researchers to nominate for the 2009 awards.

"Nominations will close on 12 June 2009 and award winners, including the NSW Scientist of the Year, will be announced at a gala awards evening on 10 September," Ms McKay said.

"Last year's Scientist of the Year Awards showcased the strength of NSW’s scientists.

“The category winners were an outstanding group of individuals and we look forward to seeing further exceptional NSW talent recognised and rewarded through the 2009 awards." Further details on the 2009 Scientist of the Year Awards including entry requirements can be found at www.osmr.nsw.gov.au.