Dedicated scientists scoop PM's award

John Key chats to award winners Dr Jeff Tallon (left) and Dr Bob Buckley. Photo / Dean Purcell

Two scientists who spent 23 years developing high-temperature superconductors have won the main prize in the inaugural Prime Minister's science awards.

The top award, presented in Auckland yesterday, was given to Dr Jeff Tallon and Dr Bob Buckley who have put New Zealand at the forefront of the new power technology.

Through their research, the scientists have established world-leading export businesses in high-temperature superconductor products.

Their breakthrough allows for smaller, lighter, more efficient machines and more environmentally friendly technology that could give companies savings in everything from power transmission to manufacturing.

Prime Minister John Key, who presented the awards, said New Zealand would have to tap into the "brainpower" of scientists such as Dr Tallon and Dr Buckley if it was going to be a better country "on a number of fronts".

The aim of the awards was to send "a strong message we want science at the heart of the New Zealand economy and the New Zealand way of thinking".

He promised a "significant financial contribution" would go into the field when the Government presented the Budget in May.

He would not give details, but said it would be one area of the Budget that would have significant new spending.

Dr Tallon said their research had been about adding value to New Zealand and the awards reflected the role science could play.

Dr Buckley described their research as taking science into the marketplace to produce results.

"[It's about] developing new materials, giving us new technology and new products, about understanding science and the technology and those products."

That process ultimately allowed the businesses to grow.

The prizes were introduced last year to raise the profile and prestige of science among New Zealanders.

* Prime Minister's 2009 Science Teacher Prize.

Morrinsville College teacher Dr Paul Lowe received the award for his creation of new teaching programmes that are turning science into a popular subject and improving students' learning attitudes.

Dr Lowe receives $50,000 and Morrinsville College $100,000.

* Future Scientist Prize

Stanley Roache, 18, a former student from Onslow College in Wellington, wins $50,000 to help with his studies.

He said it was a "huge honour" to receive the award which gave him an "amazing opportunity" to further his passion for science.

* MacDiarmid Emerging Scientist

Victoria University PhD candidate John Watt receives $150,000. It will be used to further research and commercialise his research into the growth of nanoparticles to improve air quality by reducing toxic vehicle exhaust emissions.

* Communication Prize.

Elizabeth Connor, of Wellington, wants to develop her presenting skills and work in broadcasting. She said the $150,000 prize would enable her to be the "matchmaker" between the scientific community, the media and the public.