Distinguished Professor Lidia Morawska, a prominent figure in the field of air pollution science, has been awarded the Prime Minister’s Prize for Science for her groundbreaking contributions to understanding and mitigating air pollution risks. This recognition underscores her extensive work in redefining how the world approaches air quality, particularly in indoor environments. Elected to the Australian Academy of Science in 2020, Professor Morawska is regarded as one of the leading authorities on airborne particles and their impact on human health.
Recognition of Groundbreaking Work
According to Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC, President of the Australian Academy of Science, this award is a fitting tribute to Professor Morawska’s dedication to enhancing clean indoor air quality. “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,” he stated. Her efforts gained international attention when she was named one of TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2021 for her role in convincing the World Health Organization to recognize that COVID-19 can spread through the air, particularly in indoor settings.
In 2024, Professor Morawska led a multidisciplinary team to create a comprehensive blueprint designed to serve as a mandate for improving indoor air quality. In a video produced by the Academy, she highlighted a stark contrast: “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 perspective emphasizes the urgent need for better standards regarding indoor air quality, especially as Australians spend approximately 90% of their time indoors.
Global Action on Indoor Air Quality
Poor indoor air quality is linked to serious health issues, including respiratory illnesses, allergies, and chronic conditions. To address these challenges, Professor Morawska was instrumental 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 to health and well-being. “Lidia has been essential to the international effort calling for recognition of clean indoor air as a fundamental human right,” added Professor Jagadish.
In addition to Professor Morawska’s achievements, the Academy also recognized Professor Yao Zheng, an internationally acclaimed chemical engineer, with the Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year. Professor Zheng’s innovative research has led to the development of a method for producing ultrapure hydrogen directly from untreated seawater through electrolysis. His discovery is part of the crucial wave of research aimed at fostering more sustainable societies, which also earned him the Academy’s Le Fèvre Medal in 2024.
The recognition of these distinguished scholars highlights Australia’s commitment to advancing scientific excellence and addressing global challenges through innovative research. The Academy congratulates all recipients of this year’s prizes, affirming their pivotal roles in shaping the future of science and health.
