PM’s Prizes for Science

Prize categories

The Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science recognise Australia’s best science talent. 

Depending on the prize, you can nominate:

  • someone in their early, mid or late career
  • someone from academia, research, industry, Indigenous communities or teaching
  • women and others whose contributions may be underrepresented
  • an individual, team or community group.

Why nominate

Science shapes everyday Australia. Recognise the people and teams behind its impact.

The prizes are a platform to celebrate Australians’ achievements in science and give them national recognition. Being nominated elevates careers, boosts visibility and encourages peers. They become role models to inspire future generations.

Nominees can’t self-nominate. They need champions from:

  • universities
  • research institutes
  • industries
  • communities
  • schools. 

If you have personal knowledge of their work and can offer an informed opinion, this is your opportunity to put them forward.

Why diversity is important

The prizes are strongest when nominations reflect the diversity of Australia’s scientific community. 

This includes the many women making significant contributions to research, industry and innovation.

We encourage you to consider candidates from diverse backgrounds, including:

  • personal and cultural backgrounds
  • disciplines
  • career stages
  • geographic regions.

For example:

  • women and gender diverse people
  • Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples
  • people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds
  • LGBTQIA+ people
  • people living in regional and remote areas
  • people living with disabilities
  • people from low socio-economic backgrounds
  • neurodivergent people.

Greater diversity offers a wider range of perspectives that strengthen the nation’s ability to solve scientific problems, innovate and address significant challenges.

How to nominate

Starting a nomination is simpler than you think.

Nominating involves a 2-stage process:

  • Stage 1

    Submit a statement addressing the assessment criteria, provide information about the nominee, and confirm supporters and referees are available.

  • Stage 2 (for shortlisted nominations)

    Address the assessment criteria in more detail if shortlisted.

Nominators should collaborate with nominees to help shape a complete, accurate and compelling submission. 

Read details on nominating in your preferred prize category.

When to nominate

Start compiling your submission early.

  • Stage 1

    Nominations close Thursday 7 January 2027, 5:00pm AEDT.

  • Stage 2

    Shortlisted nomination submissions open April 2027 and close May 2027.

How to encourage nominations

Raise awareness and inspire action by sharing nomination resources. 

Our content hub includes:

  • key messages
  • newsletter copy
  • social media posts and graphics
  • infographics and posters about eligibility guidelines and how to nominate.

Visit the content hub for promotional resources.

More information

Get inspired by diverse PM’s Prizes for Science alumni
Read the diversity and inclusion principles our department and assessment committees apply
Learn more about the PM’s Prizes for Science