Professor Lidia Morawska, a distinguished member of the Australian Academy of Science, has been awarded the Prime Minister’s Prize for Science for her groundbreaking contributions to air pollution science. Her work has significantly improved strategies for mitigating pollution risks globally. Elected to the Academy in 2020, Professor Morawska is widely recognized as a leading authority on airborne particles and their effects on human health and the environment.
Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC, President of the Australian Academy of Science, emphasized the importance of Morawska’s research, stating, “Lidia’s research extends beyond an academic pursuit; her tireless advocacy has elevated air quality from a niche concern to a global public health priority.” This recognition comes as a culmination of years dedicated to advancing clean indoor air initiatives.
Significant Achievements in Air Quality Research
In 2021, TIME magazine named Professor Morawska one of the 100 most influential people for her pivotal role in persuading the World Health Organization to recognize that COVID-19 can be transmitted via airborne particles, particularly in indoor settings. In 2024, she led a multidisciplinary team to create a comprehensive blueprint aimed at enhancing indoor air quality standards.
During a video presentation about this blueprint, Professor Morawska highlighted a critical issue: “Every drop of water we drink from the tap and the food that we eat are both highly regulated. Indoor air, which we take into our lungs 12 times a minute, is not regulated at all.” This statement underscores the urgent need for improved indoor air quality, especially in Australia, where individuals spend approximately 90% of their time indoors. Poor air quality is linked to numerous health issues, including respiratory illnesses and chronic conditions.
To promote global action on clean indoor air, Professor Morawska played a key role in organizing a high-level event during the 80th UN General Assembly in September 2025. This gathering saw over 150 organizations sign a global pledge to recognize clean indoor air as essential for health and wellbeing. Professor Jagadish commended Morawska’s contributions, stating, “Lidia has been essential to the international effort calling for recognition of clean indoor air as a fundamental human right.”
Recognition for Scientific Innovation
In addition to Morawska’s achievements, the Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year was awarded to internationally recognized chemical engineer Professor Yao Zheng. Zheng developed an innovative method to produce ultrapure hydrogen directly from untreated seawater through electrolysis. His research aims to contribute to sustainable energy solutions.
In 2024, Zheng received the Academy’s Le Fèvre Medal for his pioneering work, which is part of a broader wave of transformative research focused on building sustainable societies. The Australian Academy of Science congratulates all recipients of this year’s prizes, which collectively represent the nation’s highest honors for scientific excellence.
