Geologist Richard Hillis is SA Scientist of the Year
Monday, 13 August 2018
Members of the University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ community have won a total of seven out of the nine categories at the Science Excellence Awards, including the top prize, 2018 South Australian Scientist of the Year.
The South Australian Government’s Science Excellence Awards celebrate those who have made a significant contribution in their field, demonstrate outstanding leadership and inspire future generations to get involved in science.
The top award, 2018 South Australian Scientist of the Year, went to Professor Hillis, Adjunct Professor at the Australian School of Petroleum, the University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ and former Chief Executive Officer of Deep Exploration Technologies CRC.
Professor Hillis has received the award in recognition of his outstanding work in the field of mining exploration, and in particular for his work to develop a safer, cheaper and more environmentally friendly drill for Australia’s mining industry.
The other winners are:
Dr Ben Sparkes (Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, School of Physical Sciences): Tall Poppy of the Year
Dr Sparkes is developing a device that can extend the maximum distance of quantum cryptography, which will boost the security of communications for government, business and the broader community.
Dr Katharina Richter (Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Health R