- Winners announced for the 25th Premier's Science
Awards
- Twelve outstanding winners recognised across 11
award categories
- Two esteemed scientists inducted into the
Western Australian Science Hall of Fame
Western Australia's leading scientists, researchers, educators and
students have been celebrated at the 25th Premier's Science Awards.
Since 2002, the Premier's Science Awards have recognised excellence in
scientific research, education and engagement across Western Australia
Twelve winners were recognised across 11 categories for outstanding
contributions spanning natural, medical, applied and technological sciences,
engineering and mathematics.
Professor Andrew Whitehouse was named the 2026 Scientist of the Year for
his internationally recognised research transforming the understanding,
diagnosis and clinical support of autistic children.
Dr Neha Umaretiya won the People's Choice Award, which attracted 4,036 votes
from the scientific community. Dr Umaretiya is advancing STEM education and
building a skilled, future-ready workforce for Western Australia's horticulture
sector.
Two esteemed Western Australian scientists, Emeritus Professor David
Groves and Western Australian Museum research associate Dr Mark Harvey, were
also inducted into the Western Australian Science Hall of Fame.
Emeritus Professor Groves, from The University of Western Australia's
School of Earth and Oceans, was recognised for his internationally renowned
contributions to understanding mineral deposits and global metallogeny.
Dr Mark Harvey was recognised for his outstanding contributions to
documenting and advancing knowledge of Australia's invertebrate biodiversity.
The 2026 awards feature a total prize pool of $140,000, including
$50,000 for the Scientist of the Year and $10,000 for each of the other nine
prize categories.
The awards are proudly sponsored by gold sponsors Shell Australia and
Woodside Energy; silver sponsor DUG; bronze sponsors BioCina, CSIRO, the
Fogarty Foundation and Orthocell; university sponsors Curtin University, Edith
Cowan University, Murdoch University and The University of Western Australia;
sector sponsor The Kids Research Institute Australia; community partner
Scitech; and media partner The West Australian.
For more information and a complete list of winners, visit: https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-energy-and-economic-diversification/premiers-science-awards.
Comments attributed to Acting
Premier Rita Saffioti:
"The Premier's Science Awards have celebrated Western Australia's
brightest minds for 25 years, recognising the people whose work is helping
shape our State and its future.
"Our scientists and researchers are tackling real-world challenges,
supporting new industries and strengthening Western Australia's reputation as a
global centre for science and innovation.
"I congratulate all the 2026 winners, finalists and Hall of Fame
inductees for their outstanding achievements and contribution to our State."
Comments attributed to Science
and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Western Australia is home to extraordinary scientific talent across
fields ranging from medicine and biodiversity to engineering, technology and
the resources sector.
"These awards showcase the impact of that talent and provide important
role models for young Western Australians considering a future in science,
technology, engineering and mathematics.
"By celebrating scientific achievement, we also create opportunities for
greater collaboration, investment and the new ideas that will drive our State
forward."
