Awarded to a lecturer or educator who demonstrates excellence in a field of STEM education in a tertiary setting (university and/or registered training organisation), and who has made outstanding contributions to enhancing student engagement in STEM.
Now in its 23rd year, the Premier's Science Awards recognises and celebrates the outstanding scientific research and engagement taking place in Western Australia.
This year, 3 finalists have been selected for the inaugural Science Educator of the Year (Tertiary) category:
Associate Professor Zoe Richards
Curtin University and Western Australian Museum
Associate Professor Zoe Richards is dedicated to advancing tertiary education in the Biological Sciences. She prioritises creating interactive learning environments, as evidenced by including 9 undergraduate students as authors on a peer-reviewed study published in the journal Coral Reefs, originating from the capstone third-year Environmental Field Unit. This opportunity reflects her unwavering commitment to providing learning experiences that equip students with essential skills and enthusiasm for their academic and professional journeys.
Associate Professor Richards finds immense joy in empowering students to embrace exploration and excellence in their studies, helping them become workplace-ready and urging them to share their transformative experiences with a broader audience.
Dr Pejman Rowshan Farzad
The University of Western Australia
Dr Pejman Rowshan Farzad, Senior Lecturer at The University of Western Australia Physics Department and the Medical Physics Postgraduate Program Chair, has significantly advanced the field of Medical Physics in Western Australia through a unique blend of educational rigor and research excellence. Since taking leadership of the program in 2016, he has transformed it into a cornerstone of innovative education, directly impacting the healthcare landscape in Western Australia and beyond.
Dr Rowshan Farzad has been teaching numerous subjects, supervising research projects in collaboration with public and private hospitals in Australia and overseas, while managing the program and coordinating all units. His dynamic teaching approach and close collaboration with industry guarantees professional success for graduates.
Dr Alexandra Yeung
Curtin University
Dr Alexandra Yeung is a senior lecturer at Curtin University, School of Molecular and Life Sciences. She is a multi-award-winning educator and is privileged to lead changes in how students learn. She fosters engaging learning environments that empower students to thrive academically and professionally while embracing innovative and inclusive teaching strategies.
Dr Yeung’s impact spans the tertiary and secondary sectors. Her work on using electronic laboratory notebooks has armed her students with industry best practice techniques and made her a leader in the field.
Dr Yeung has influenced hundreds of teachers and students nationally through her projects with schools and STEM outreach activities.
