Nominations are now open for the 2010 Prime Minister’s Science Prizes, worth a total of $1 million.
The Top Award, Prime Minister’s Science Prize, carrying a cash prize of $500,000, will recognise a transformational science discovery or achievement, which has had a significant impact on New Zealand or anywhere in the world.
Other categories include the MacDiarmid Emerging Scientist Prize ($200,000), Science Teacher Prize ($150,000), Science Media Communication Prize ($100,000) and Future Scientist Prize $50,000.
Nominations for the MacDiarmid Emerging Scientist Prize ($200,000) closed in April 2010. This Award recognises an emerging scientist either pursuing PhD or would pursue research within five years after receiving the Prize.
Research, Science and Technology Minister Wayne Mapp said these prizes formed an important initiative in the Government’s commitment to scientific achievement.
“These prizes lift the profile of science and put the spotlight on the contribution our outstanding scientists and science teachers are making to New Zealand.
“Science and innovation flow into every aspect of daily life – from doctors’ visits to electronic gadgetry, new discoveries and inventions,” he said.
Nominations for the Science, the Science Teacher and the Science Media Communication Prize close on 27 August.
The Future Scientist Prize will be awarded to the Supreme Award recipient from the Royal Society of New Zealand’s Realise the Dream competition.
For additional information, visit www.pmscienceprizes.org.nz
