on 02/03/2026
Applications for the 2026 South Australian Science Excellence and Innovation Awards are now open.
For more than 20 years, these prestigious Awards have recognised South Australian individuals and teams that have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation and scientific contributions across science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM).
New award category
This year marks the introduction of a new award category: the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander STEMM Award.
Open to individuals or teams, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander STEMM Award recognises the significant achievements of those bringing together Indigenous knowledge systems, culture and STEMM, for transformative outcomes in our communities.
Applications for the 2026 SA Science Awards are open across the following categories:
- Scientist of the Year
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander STEMM Award
- Mid-Career STEMM Professional of the Year
- STEMM Educator of the Year – Secondary or Primary
- STEMM Educator of the Year – University or Registered Training Organisation
- Excellence in Collaborative Innovation
- PhD Research Excellence Award
Winners receive prize money to support their future work or career aspirations, including $25,000 for the South Australian Scientist of the Year and $10,000 for all other category winners.
All finalists will have their STEMM story professionally filmed to help them showcase and promote their work to a wider audience.
Finalists will also meet the Chief Scientist for South Australia Craig Simmons and other special guests at celebratory events, including a certificate presentation and a Gala Dinner celebration in November 2026 - where the winners will be announced.
Applications are open now and close Monday 27 April 2026.
For full award criteria and how to apply visit scienceawards.sa.gov.au
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