From clean hydrogen to quantum cybersecurity and Sea Country conservation, the 2025 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science celebrate the brightest minds shaping Australia’s science future
For those considering a career in STEM, the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science are a great place to get your inspo. Each year, the prizes recognise top scientists, innovators and educators using their STEM smarts to solve real-world challenges and improve lives.
As Prime Minister Anthony Albanese put it, “Australia is a powerhouse of science, innovation and research which has a global impact”.
Time to check out this year’s winners!
Breathe easy
This year, Distinguished Professor Lidia Morawska took out the top gong for transforming how the world understands air quality – work that proved vital during COVID-19 and continues to shape global health policy.
Quantum smarts
In innovation, Dr Vikram Sharma, founder of QuintessenceLabs, is leading the charge in quantum cybersecurity, translating Australian research into world-leading data protection.
Sea Country conservation
For the first time, these awards recognised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Knowledge Systems, honouring Professor Michael Wear, a Malgana Traditional Custodian from Gutharraguda (Shark Bay, WA), for his leadership in Sea Country conservation and sustainable enterprises through Tidal Moon.
Terrific teachers
The teaching prizes went to Paula Taylor, who’s inspired over 10,000 students through hands-on STEM programs in ACT primary schools, and Matt Dodds, who’s boosted physics participation – especially among girls – at Glen Innes High School in NSW.
So much science!
Other winners include Professor Yao Zheng for producing clean hydrogen from seawater, Dr David Khoury for applying maths to vaccine and malaria research, and Dr Nikhilesh Bappoo for developing accessible medical technologies.
From classrooms to cutting-edge labs, this year’s winners prove that science careers can take you anywhere!
