Two Academy Fellows awarded PM’s Prize for Science

The Australian Academy of Science today congratulated the winners of the 2014 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science, including two Academy Fellows.

Professors Ingrid Scheffer and Sam Berkovic have won the $300,000 Prime Minister’s Prize for Science for their ground-breaking work in epilepsy and its genetic links. Their work has led to improved diagnosis and treatment for epilepsy sufferers around the world.

“This is the kind of scientific work that changes the world and it is fantastic to see our Fellows being recognised for their important contributions,” Academy President Professor Andrew Holmes said.

“These two scientists have led the way in finding the genetic basis for epilepsy with profound implications for the 50 million or so people worldwide who have the condition,” Professor Holmes said.

“I also warmly congratulate the other winners this year, including the two science teachers who have been recognised for inspiring their students.”

Professor Scheffer is also one of three scientists to feature in the Academy’s new Brain Box podcast interviews which aim to show the personal side of Australian scientists.

Professor Scheffer and Professor Berkovic will receive the prize tonight in the Great Hall of Parliament House in Canberra.

The Academy congratulates the other winners of the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science:

• Matthew Hill, winner of the Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year
• Professor Ryan Lister, winner of the Frank Fenner Prize for Life Scientist of the Year
• Geoff McNamara, winner of the Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary School
• Brian Schiller, winner of the Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools