Australian Laureate Fellowships for sustainability researchers

Minister for Education Christopher Pyne last week announced 16 new Australian Laureate Fellowships. The scheme provides funding for projects by world-class researchers, including Scientia Professors Rose Amal and Veena Sahajwalla from UNSW.

Professor Sahajwalla, director of UNSW’s Centre for Sustainable Materials Research and Technology, has been awarded $2.37 million for research into microrecycling of e-waste. She also received a Georgina Sweet Fellowship, which will enable her to undertake an ambassadorial role to promote women in research.

Professor Amal, leader of the Particle and Catalysis Research Group in the UNSW School of Chemical Engineering, was awarded $2.38 million to develop technology to transform carbon dioxide into sustainable fuels - a process that could revolutionise the recycling of the greenhouse gas. Professor Amal is recognised as a pioneer in the fields of fine particle technology, photocatalysis and functional nanomaterials.

“This funding scheme supports researchers of international repute and these fellowships will play an important role in meeting the Australian Government’s commitment to ensure Australia successfully competes on the international research stage,” Pyne said.

“The outcomes of these fellowships will make a valuable contribution to Australia’s knowledge base and prosperity. Fellows will also mentor our young researchers, which is vital if we are to continue to produce world-class research.”