MT Waverley MP Maxine Morand has invited the city’s leading and emerging scientists, engineers, and innovators to nominate for the prestigious 2003 Victoria Prize and Fellowships.

The $50,000 Victoria Prize and six $15,000 Victoria Fellowships recognize the contribution of scientists, engineers, and innovators to Victoria’s future prosperity and quality of life.

Ms. Morand said the fellowships were open to young people working in science, engineering, or technology industries, or postgraduates near the end of their studies.

“The fellows receive grants of up to $15,000 for an international study mission to develop a commercial idea, further their research, or undertake specialist training.

“Young people working in research and development are innovators whose cutting edge research will help tackle the challenges facing Victoria and the world and they deserve our support and encouragement.”

The $100,000 Anne and Eric Smorgon Memorial Award, introduced last year by the Jack and Robert Smorgon Families Foundation to a research institute supporting the work of the Victoria Prize winner, will also be presented.