Professor Edward Holmes FAA, FRS, a Davidson constituent from St Ives and Professor at the University of Sydney, has won the 2017 Premier’s Prize for Science & Engineering in the category of Excellence in Biological Sciences (Ecology, environmental, agricultural and organismal).
Professor Holmes’ pioneering work into the emergence, evolution and spread of ribonucleic (RNA) viruses has considerably improved our ability to predict and control infectious diseases. His expertise extends to the origin and evolution of many viral infections including influenza, dengue and Ebola as well as exploring viral resistance to antiviral therapy.
Member for Davidson, Jonathan O’Dea, said, “Professor Holmes’ research has helped the NSW public health system to better predict disease outbreaks and direct optimal intervention strategies. His research has also allowed NSW cattle farmers to mitigate the risk of vector-borne viruses.”
The Premier’s Prizes for Science & Engineering reflect the NSW Government's strong commitment to the research and development community. Since 2008, the Prizes have generated community awareness and appreciation of the important contribution scientists and engineers make to our daily lives.
“I congratulate Professor Holmes on his 2017 Premier’s Prize for Science & Engineering. Mindful of the potential impacts of innovative research, I encourage people to consider pursuing careers in science and engineering,” Mr O’Dea concluded.
