The Warsash Science Communication Prize in Optics is open to student members of the Australian and New Zealand Optical Society (ANZOS) whose Honours, Masters or PhD research work has been accepted for publication in a refereed journal in the past year. The Prize may only be awarded once to any individual. The $500 Prize is sponsored by Warsash Scientific Pty Ltd.

A submission consists of a 300-word summary of the published research, written in the style of a New Scientist article or similar, explaining the significance of the applicant’s research project to a general reader outside the field. The submission may include up to 2 figures which may be in colour or black and white, and should also include a copy of the published research paper(s) with evidence of acceptance for publication. Applicants should provide a short statement explaining their contribution to the published paper, signed by the applicant and their supervisor.

Applicants agree that their submissions may be published in ANZOS News at the discretion of the ANZOS News Editor, and/or placed on the ANZOS Website, with author and institution attribution.

Selection criteria for the award

1. High-quality research in optics or its applications
2. Clarity of explanation (of the submission)
3. Suitability of the figures to the overall summary
4. Ability to seize and sustain the reader's interest
5. The student's research has been accepted for publication in a refereed journal

The nomination should include

1. The research publication
2. One-page narrative of the discovery pitched to a non-specialist audience
3. Statement of contribution, signed by the student and the PhD supervisor
4. Any additional supporting materials, e.g. high-quality graphics and media releases.

Applications from female candidates and members of other historically under-represented groups in STEM are highly encouraged.

Applications should be sent to the ANZOS Secretary. The Award is judged by a committee appointed by the ANZOS Council, including a representative from Warsash. For the 2021 award, all nomination materials must reach the ANZOS secretary by 28 May 2021.

Previous winners of the Warsash Science Communication Prize in Optics are: