The 2024 Premier's Science Awards invited members of the general public to vote for their favourite finalist through an online voting poll. The People’s Choice Award was awarded to the 2024 finalist with the most votes and helps celebrate the contributions of exceptional Western Australians in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) sector.
Now in its 23rd year, the Premier's Science Awards recognises and celebrates the outstanding scientific research and engagement taking place in Western Australia.
Meet the winner for the People’s Choice Award:
John Curtin Distinguished Professor Sharon Parker
Curtin University
The average person spends 90,000 hours working in their life, and this is increasing as the population ages. Poor quality work causes burnout, injury, family breakdown, and even premature mortality for people, as well as reduced productivity. Good work design helps individuals, teams, and organisations to thrive.
John Curtin Distinguished Professor Sharon Parker is helping to improve work quality across the globe through world-leading research on work design, which she is then directly applying in Western Australia. Professor Parker led a landmark study into mental health and workplace culture in the Western Australian mining industry, and advises health, aged and disability care organisations, amongst others.
