Minister Barr: ACT public school grad named 2016 Scientist of the Year
- Written by ACT Government
Released 16/08/2016
A former Lyneham Primary School student, whose research is helping us to understand how the physical environment has shaped the diversity of life on earth, is the 2016 ACT Scientist of the Year.
Dr Ceridwen Fraser is a born and bred Canberran who was educated in our schools, studied at the University of Canberra and now works at the Australian National University as a biogeographer.
Dr Fraser is a product of Canberra’s world-class education system, and like many before her has gone on to make a number of achievements in science. I’m delighted that a former Canberra public education student has won this year’s award and I hope it encourages more students to follow in her footsteps.
Her internationally renowned research is helping understand how plants and animals survive climate changes. Her work has important implications for how we manage biodiversity and ecosystems now and into the future.
The ACT Scientist of the Year Award celebrates excellence in scientific research and innovation in the ACT and Dr Fraser certainly embodies this. The winner also receives a $30,000 prize.
The Award is also a demonstration of the ACT Government’s commitment to growing science understanding and engagement in our community. It is a fantastic opportunity to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in the ACT, as well as showcasing the contribution our local scientists are making both nationally and internationally to this very important global brain trust.
We know STEM education and skills are vital to the ACT’s future. It is estimated that 75 per cent of the fastest growing occupations require STEM skills and knowledge.
Congratulations to Dr Fraser for her outstanding research and for being awarded the 2016 ACT Scientist of the Year.
For more information about the ACT Scientist of the Year and to view a video highlighting Dr Fraser’s research, go to: www.cmd.act.gov.au/communication/scientistofyear
- Statement ends -
Section: Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases
