ANDREW Barr want Canberra scientists to nominate for the inaugural ACT Scientist of the Year Award. The five week nomination period commenced today.

“The award provides us with an opportunity to showcase the contribution that Canberrans make to the world of science, both nationally and worldwide,” Andrew said.

“I am hopeful that it will uncover some of the many brilliant possibilities our local scientists are working very hard to make reality through their interesting and extensive research.

“The ACT Scientist of the Year Award will be presented for the first time in 2015, and will be open to ACT-based individual scientists working in basic or applied research in all fields of science, technology, engineering or mathematics.

“The winning scientist will receive a $30,000 (ex GST) prize, and will become a ‘science ambassador’ for the ACT. Nominations close on Tuesday 9 June 2015 and the winner will be announced during National Science Week in August.

“I encourage all local scientists who have finished their PhD within the last 10 years to submit a nomination.”

For further information visit act.gov.au/scientistofyear.