The Marie Krogh Young Women in Science Prize is a prestigious award that aims to recognise and celebrate outstanding young women in science and medicine who embody Innovation, Leadership and Impact. Open to applicants from both Australia and New Zealand, the Prize aims to highlight groundbreaking scientific research that demonstrates originality and advances knowledge through creative approaches and novel solutions. 

The Prize also aims to honour contributions that have a measurable impact on healthcare, improving patient outcomes, shaping public health policies, or transforming clinical practices. It also seeks to acknowledge exceptional leadership and community engagement, particularly in fostering collaboration, mentoring future leaders, and empowering young women in science and medicine. By acknowledging their achievements, the award continues Marie Krogh’s legacy of breaking barriers, advancing knowledge, and inspiring generations of women to shape the future of science.

 

The Marie Krogh Prize offers more than financial support. It provides:

  • Recognition across Australia and New Zealand.
  • Opportunities to connect with peers, mentors, and scientific leaders.
  • A platform to raise your profile and expand your impact.
     

The Marie Krogh Prize Winner will receive $50,000 AUD

7 x Finalists will each receive $5,000 AUD

All finalists will be invited to a Finalist Reception and Awards dinner in Canberra.

  • Applications Open in Australia & New Zealand
    3 June (9am AEST)
  • Applications Close in Australia & New Zealand
    5 July (Midnight AEST)
  • Finalists Announced
    16 September
  • Prize Announcement Dinner
    13 October
MK Prize Innovation pillar

MK Prize Leadership pillar

MK Prize Impact pillar

Marie Krough Headshot Frame

To be eligible to apply for the Marie Krogh Young Women in Science Prize, Entrants must meet all of the following criteria as at the Closing Date:

  • Be either: 
    • an Australian citizen or permanent resident; or 
    • a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident who identifies as female.
  • Be professionally engaged in one or more of the following fields:
    • Scientific research, including biomedical, health, clinical, or life sciences;
    • Medical or clinical practice; or
    • Pharmaceutical research or development. 
  • Be currently based in Australia or New Zealand, or have made significant contributions to science, healthcare, or public health in Australia or New Zealand, even if currently residing overseas. 
  • Be at an early-to-mid career stage, typically defined as within ten (10) years of conferral of highest degree (PhD, MD, or equivalent). Consideration will be given to applicants whose careers have been interrupted or who have followed non-linear pathways, including career changes, parental leave, or other significant personal or professional circumstances. 
  • Have no substantiated findings of professional misconduct or breaches of ethics. 
  • Be available and willing to attend the Canberra events on 13 October 2026, including the Finalist reception, Prize announcement dinner, and Alumni Breakfast on 14 October 2026. Novo Nordisk will cover reasonable travel and accommodation expenses.

Associate Professor Ines Pires da Silva
Medical Oncologist at the Melanoma Institute Australia

Assoc. Prof. Pires da Silva was awarded the inaugural Marie Krogh Young Women in Science Prize 2025 for her groundbreaking contributions to transforming care for patients with advanced melanoma through innovation in immunotherapy.

She created the NeoPlatform, a world-first research program that turns neoadjuvant immunotherapy into personalised treatment strategies. This program uses cutting-edge technologies to predict response, monitor progress, and overcome resistance – helping tailor therapy for each patient.

She also developed the Melanoma Risk Prediction Tool, now used globally to guide treatment decisions. Her research has changed international clinical guidelines and influenced Australian health policy, including PBS listing of life-saving combination immunotherapy for patients who previously had no options.

Beyond her scientific achievements, Associate Professor Silva is a dedicated mentor and leader. She co-supervises PhD students, champions women in research, and serves on national and international committees shaping cancer care.

Her work has been published in leading journals like The Lancet Oncology and New England Journal of Medicine and recognised with awards from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO), and the Melanoma Research Alliance.