Applications are open for APEC Science Prize for Innovation, Research and Education (ASPIRE Prize) 2021. The ASPIRE Prize supports APEC’s mission to:

• Strengthen international science and technology networks.
• Enhance economic growth, trade and investment opportunities in harmony with sustainable development, through policies, innovative R&D and technologies, and knowledge sharing.
• Improve linkages and efficiency between research and innovation.

ASPIRE 2021 nomination theme

The theme focuses on researcher insights from indigenous and ethnic minority cultures and communities to help inform new frontiers in science, technology and innovation. This may include research that explores interactions between traditional and contemporary approaches to knowledge and science, as well as applications such as better management of natural resources, healthcare and agricultural systems.

Nominees should demonstrate a commitment to excellence in scientific research, and cooperation with scientists from other APEC member economies in subjects such as: biology, chemistry, environmental science, physics, mathematics and other relevant fields.

Winners

• The winner of the national competition, along with other economies’ candidates, will be nominated for the ASPIRE prize. The winner of the 2021 ASPIRE Prize will be recognised at a virtual award ceremony during the 17th APEC PPSTI meeting, hosted by New Zealand.
• The top three Australian ranked applicants from this competition will receive a prize of A$2000 each. The highest-ranked applicant will become the Australian nominee for the ASPIRE Prize.
• The nominees from each APEC member economy will then be considered by the full APEC Policy Partnership on Science, Technology and Innovation working group for selection as the 2021 ASPIRE Prize winner, with prize money in the amount of US$25,000 (equivalent to A$32,000 – $35,000).

Eligibility

The applicant of APEC Science Prize for Innovation, Research and Education 2021 must be

• Under the age of 40 at 31 December 2021.
• From an eligible research institute.
• An Australian citizen, or an Australian permanent resident who is a citizen of an APEC member economy; and is living in Australia at the time of submitting the application.

Selection Criteria

• Excellence in scientific research, as evidenced through scholarly publication.
• Commitment to cooperation with scientists from other APEC member economies.
• Contribution to the theme of ‘Diverse Knowledge for a Sustainable Future

APEC nomination form