The Tall Poppy Campaign
Celebrating the best and brightest in Australian science
Celebrating the best and brightest in Australian science
In 2019, the Australian Institute of Policy and Science celebrated 20 years of promoting young Australian researchers through the Young Tall Poppy Awards (aips.net.au/tall-poppy-campaign). These awards were one of the first in the country to recognise researchers for their the passion and commitment to the communication of science, hand-in-hand with a strong research focus and output.
Over that time, more than 750 awardees have been named from all states and territories, and across all disciplines of science, technology, maths and engineering. Winners then become part of a proud alumni that undertake science outreach in their state, are role models, and that are empowered to take their work to the media or to government. In addition, there have also been several collaborative links formed between winners, leading to even stronger research outcomes. In each state, AIPS also names one Young Tall Poppy of the Year who is deserving of particular recognition for their outstanding work in science and communication.
The Tall Poppy Campaign has a long track record of picking the best and brightest future leaders in Australian science. Many former winners have gone on to win Eureka prizes for communication and leadership, as well as Prime Minister's Prizes for Science. Others are now globally respected leaders in their field, and even a university Vice Chancellor.
The most pleasing outcome in recent years has been the increased nominations by former winners of the next generation of Tall Poppies, showing the high regard they have for this award.
In 2019, AIPS awarded 61 new Tall Poppies from universities and research institutes across the country. The impressive breadth of research they represent reflects an incredibly bright future for Australian science.