The Premier's Science Awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding scientific research and engagement taking place in Western Australia.
Winners will be announced at the Premier’s Science Awards ceremony later in the year.
WA scientists, researchers, STEM tertiary students, lecturers, school, teachers, and STEM engagement providers are encouraged to apply.
Why apply?
The Premier Science Awards are Western Australia’s highest recognition of scientific excellence contributing to the progress of our State.
There are 10 categories in the 2026 Awards, with prizes ranging from $10,000 to $50,000.
There will also be a People's Choice Award, awarded to the favourite finalist as chosen by members of the general public.
As a winner or finalist, you will be recognised by fellow researchers, WA’s leading scientific organisations, industry, and the broader public. You will also receive promotional assistance that highlights the accomplishments and impact of your work.
You will also be invited to attend the awards ceremony, with the opportunity to network with senior government representatives, industry leaders and key stakeholders in the STEM community.
Applications close 4pm (AWST), Monday 11 May 2026.
For further information, email us.
Our partners
We gratefully acknowledge the official sponsors and partners of the 2026 awards.
If you’re interested in sponsoring the Premier’s Science Awards in celebration of its 25th anniversary, please contact science@deed.wa.gov.au .
Scientist of the Year
Show moreAwarded to a world class scientist who has demonstrated excellence in a field of science, scientific research or technological advancement and has been active in the field particularly in the past 10 years.
Cash prize: $50,000.
Before you apply, please read the 2026 Research Applicant Information.
You must submit your application through the online portal.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scientist of the Year
Show moreAwarded to an individual Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander scientist or researcher who demonstrates excellence in a field of science, scientific research, or technological advancement.
Cash prize: $10,000.
Before you apply, please read the 2026 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scientist Applicant Information.
You must submit your application through the online portal.
Mid-Career Scientist of the Year
Show moreAwarded to an outstanding scientist who completed their highest degree between 5 and 15 years ago, and has demonstrated excellence in a field of science, scientific research or technological advancement.
Cash prize: $10,000.
Before you apply, please read 2026 Mid-Career Scientist of the Year Applicant Information.
You must submit your application through the online portal.
Early Career Scientist of the Year
Show moreAwarded to an outstanding scientist who has completed their highest degree within the past 5 years and demonstrated excellence in a field of science, scientific research or technological advancement.
Cash prize: $10,000.
Before you apply, please read 2026 Research Applicant Information.
You must submit your application through the online portal.
Student Scientist of the Year
Show moreAwarded to an outstanding postgraduate student who has demonstrated a commitment to science at an early stage and shows great promise in reaching the highest levels of excellence.
Cash prize: $10,000.
Before you apply, please read 2026 Research Applicant Information.
You must submit your application through the online portal.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander STEM Student of the Year
Show moreAwarded to an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander undergraduate or postgraduate student who demonstrates excellence in STEM studies.
Cash prize: $10,000.
Before you apply, please read the 2026 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander STEM Student Applicant Information.
You must submit your application through the online portal.
Government Science Project of the Year
Show moreAwarded to an outstanding scientific research project being conducted within the state government sector.
Prize: $10,000 contribution towards communication activities to share knowledge and enhance the profile of the research project in the community, nationally and/or internationally.
Before you apply, please read the 2026 Government Science Project of the Year Applicant Information.
You must submit your application through the online portal.
STEM Educator of the Year – Schools (Primary and Secondary)
Show moreAwarded to a teacher or educator who demonstrates excellence teaching in a field of STEM in schools (primary, secondary, and/or vocational education), and who has made outstanding contributions to enhancing student engagement in science and/or STEM.
Cash prize: $10,000.
Before you apply, please read the 2026 STEM Educator Applicant Information.
You must submit your application through the online portal.
STEM Educator of the Year – Tertiary (Universities and Registered Training Organisations)
Show moreAwarded to a university or registered training organisation lecturer or educator who demonstrates excellence teaching in a field of STEM and who has made outstanding contributions to enhancing student engagement in science and/or STEM.
Cash prize: $10,000.
Before you apply, please read the 2026 STEM Educator Applicant Information.
You must submit your application through the online portal.
Science Engagement Initiative of the Year
Show moreAwarded to an initiative that has made an outstanding contribution to community awareness, interest and/or participation in science in Western Australia.
Cash prize: $10,000.
Before you apply, please read the 2026 Engagement Applicant Information.
You must submit your application through the online portal.
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