Nominations for PM’s Prizes for Science open

There’s nothing quite like putting a nice shiny prize on your mantle – and your C.V. With that in mind, nominations are now open for the 2012 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science.

The prizes include the Prime Minister's Prize for Science itself, which is awarded for an exceptional specific achievement in any area of science advancing human welfare or benefiting society.

The Prime Minister's Prize for Science may be awarded to an individual or jointly to up to four individuals, if the achievement is a collaborative or team effort.

The Prime Minister's Prize for Science comprises a gold medallion and lapel pin, and a cash component of $300,000.

The Science Minister's Prize for Life Scientist of the Year and the Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year are awarded to scientists at an early or mid-career investigation stages in their careers.

Each of these prizes is awarded for an outstanding achievement in science that advances, or has the potential to advance, human welfare or benefits society. These Prizes are awarded only to an individual. Each comprises a silver medallion and lapel pin, and a cash component of $50,000.

The Prime Minister's Prizes for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools and Secondary Schools are awarded annually to two teachers who have made an outstanding contribution to science education in Australia.

The Science Teaching Prizes each comprise a silver medallion and lapel pin, and a cash prize of $50,000.

Nominations are open now and close on 27 April 2012 at 5pm. You can find details on the eligibility criteria and make your nominations online at the prize’s website.