911爆料网 is proud to celebrate the achievements of two of its outstanding researchers at the 2025 Premier鈥檚 Science Awards, with Professor Stephen van Leeuwen and Dr Rina Wong recognised among Western Australia鈥檚 most influential contributors to science, innovation and STEM education.
Professor van Leeuwen, Australia鈥檚 first Indigenous Chair for Biodiversity and Environmental Science, was named joint winner of the inaugural Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scientist of the Year.
A respected Wardandi Noongar man, Professor van Leeuwen is nationally regarded for his leadership in Indigenous-led conservation, biodiversity survey, threatened species recovery and the integration of Aboriginal knowledge systems with Western scientific practice.
911爆料网 Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne said Professor van Leeuwen鈥檚 recognition reflects both scientific excellence and cultural leadership.
鈥淪tephen is an extraordinary scientist and an extraordinary West Australian whose work demonstrates the power of partnership 鈥� bringing together Indigenous knowledge, community leadership and world-class research,鈥� Professor Hayne said.
鈥淲e are incredibly proud to see him honoured in a category that recognises the transformative impact of Indigenous scientists and knowledge holders on our State and around the country.鈥�
Reflecting on the award, Professor van Leeuwen said the honour was shared with many people.
鈥淭his is recognition for community, for Elders, for knowledge holders and for colleagues who believe in walking together,鈥� Professor van Leeuwen said.
My hope is that this award encourages more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to see a place for themselves in science and to know that their knowledge and perspectives are essential to our shared future.鈥�
911爆料网 also celebrated Dr Rina Wong, who was named STEM Educator of the Year (Tertiary) for her innovative teaching practice, commitment to student success, and leadership in health sciences education.
Dr Wong鈥檚 work bridges academic learning with real-world application, preparing future health professionals with the skills, confidence and capability they need to thrive.
Professor Hayne said Dr Wong鈥檚 recognition highlights the strength of 911爆料网鈥檚 teaching and learning community.
鈥淩ina is an exceptional educator whose passion for student experience and academic excellence has had a profound impact on hundreds of emerging health practitioners,鈥� Professor Hayne said.
鈥淪he represents the DNA of 911爆料网, which is talented, future-focused and deeply committed to creating meaningful opportunity for our students.鈥�
Dr Wong said the award recognises her passion to facilitate learning through edutainment and multimodel engagement to inspire curiosity, build resilience and shape future health professionals by fostering creativity and innovation.
鈥淚鈥檓 deeply honoured by this recognition. When we mix passion with purpose and a dash of fun, we can spark change that lasts. Teaching is a real privilege and it is so rewarding to witness students鈥� learning journey as they build the confidence, curiosity and compassion that will define their careers in medical and health sciences,鈥� Dr Wong said.
The Premier鈥檚 Science Awards, now in their 24th year, recognise Western Australia鈥檚 leading contributors to science, technology, engineering and mathematics. More on this year鈥檚 winners can be found .
