PM Award Goes to Scientist for COVID-Related Airborne Virus Research

Professor Lidia Morawska has been awarded the Prime Minister’s Prize for Science for her research on air quality and airborne disease transmission—work that helped shape the global response to COVID-19.

Morawska’s research proved the role of airborne particles in spreading respiratory viruses and pushed governments and health agencies to improve ventilation and air-quality standards.

The professor said it was “something incredible” and stressed there was more to be done.

“There’s still a long way to go, so I’m not looking backwards, but I’m looking forward. How much is still to be done you.”

Professor Morawska said people often overlook the importance of clean air because it cannot be seen.

“The air is invisible. Most people take it for granted understanding the air is extremely important from many different angles, but for us, for our health, it is the most important thing, which we take into our bodies,” she said.

She said her motivation was to improve public health and wellbeing.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised her contribution to global health and science.

“Australia is a powerhouse of science, innovation and research which has a global impact—as is evident by the recognition of the work of Distinguished Professor Lidia Morawska,” he said.

Opposition leader Sussan Ley also welcomed the award.

“Her work quite literally changed public health policies across the globe and continues to change lives today,” she told Parliament.

Other Recipients:

Prime Minister’s Prize for Innovation: Dr Vikram Sharma was recognised for turning Australian quantum research into advanced cyber-security technology. He founded Canberra-based QuintessenceLabs in 2008.

Indigenous Knowledge Systems Prize: The inaugural award went to Professor Michael Wear, a Malgana Traditional Custodian of Shark Bay, for applying Indigenous knowledge to sea-country conservation and sustainable commercial ventures, including Australia’s first Indigenous-owned sea cucumber fishery.

Primary School Science Teaching Prize: Paula Taylor was honoured for transforming STEM learning in ACT schools, working with more than 10,000 students and 480 teachers.

Secondary School Science Teaching Prize: Matt Dodds was recognised for expanding STEM pathways for rural students in NSW and boosting female participation in physics at Glen Innes High School.

Physical Scientist of the Year: Professor Yao Zheng received the prize for developing technology to produce clean hydrogen directly from seawater, supporting Australia’s net-zero transition.

Life Scientist of the Year: Dr. David Khoury was honoured for using mathematics to guide malaria drug development and shape COVID-19 and mpox vaccine policy.

Prize for New Innovators: Dr. Nikhilesh Bappoo received the award for developing affordable medical technologies, including ultrasound-based tools to improve patient care and reduce preventable deaths.