NSW Science and Engineering Awards Announced. (November 15, 2012)

Initiated in 2008 the New South Wales Science and Engineering Awards are designed to engage and involve the state's research community as well as the public in promoting the value of science and engineering and to encourage career choices in science, mathematics and engineering.

The eight award categories this year are:

1. Excellence in Mathematics, Earth Sciences, Chemistry and Physics
2. Excellence in Biological Sciences (Human and Animal Health)
3. Excellence in Biological Sciences (Plant, Agriculture and Environment)
4. Excellence in Engineering and Information and Communications Technologies
5. Emerging Research
6. Renewable Energy Innovation
7. Innovation in Public Sector Sciences and Engineering
8. Innovation in Science and Mathematics Education

The 2012 NSW Scientist of the Year will receive $55,000 in prize money and a trophy while the winners of the eight categories receive a trophy and $5,000.

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The awards for the individual categories:

Excellence in Mathematics, Earth Sciences, Chemistry and Physics: Tied: Professor Matthew England and Professor Chris Tinney.

Excellence in Biological Sciences ( Human and Animal Health): Professor Paul Foster.

Excellence in Biological Sciences (Plant, Agriculture and Environment): Tied Associate Professor Emma Johnson and Associate Professor Angela Moles.

Excellence in Engineering and Information and Communications Technology: Professor Andrew Dzurak.

Emerging Research: Professor Peter Robinson has been a pioneer in the emerging area of physiologically based quantitative brain modelling.

Renewable Energy Innovation: Professor Guoxiu Wang is a leading researcher in the field of renewable energy technology.

Innovation in Public Sector Science and Engineering: Dr Neil Saintilin is Head of the New South Wales Rivers and Wetlands Unit.

Innovation in science and mathematics education: Dr Kenneth Silburn: He is head teacher of science at Casula High School