• 2017 Premier's Science Awards finalists announced 
• Awards celebrate State's best scientists and outreach initiatives across four categories
• Winners to be announced on August 14, 2017, during National Science Week

Premier Mark McGowan today announced the finalists in the 2017 Premier's Science Awards.

There are 19 finalists across the four categories, representing a range of science disciplines and achievements. 

The finalists have contributed to better treatments for cancer and other diseases, biodiversity preservation, advancements in the mineral and energy sectors, and discoveries about the origins of life on Earth and the beginnings of the universe. 

The Premier's Science Award winners and WA Science Hall of Fame inductee will be announced at an awards ceremony on August 14, 2017, during National Science Week, Australia's biggest annual celebration of science.

The 2017 Premier's Science Awards categories are:

• Scientist of the Year ($50,000 prize);
• Woodside Early Career Scientist of the Year ($10,000 prize);
• ExxonMobil Student Scientist of the Year ($10,000 prize); and
• Chevron Science Engagement Initiative of the Year ($10,000 prize).

For more information, visit the Premier's Science Awards page.


Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:

"The McGowan Government is working to create future job opportunities for Western Australians and diversifying the economy, including through support for science.

"Advances in science improve the lives of Western Australians, including through better health and medical treatments, protection of our natural environment, and new and better industries.

"These awards recognise the outstanding work of our local science community, both in research and engaging the community with science, and the people behind that work.

"The finalists in this year's Premier's Science Awards boast an impressive range of achievements and are exemplars for the community and others in the science field."