Women working in science, technology, engineering or mathematics sectors are being encouraged to apply for a world-first prize for emerging researchers.
The inaugural Marie Krogh Young Women in Science prize, launched by healthcare company Novo Nordisk, will consist of a $50,000 cash prize as well as $5000 for seven finalists.
It's named in honour of Danish physician Marie Krogh (1874-1943), who pioneered treatment for diabetes as one of the first women in Denmark to earn a doctorate in medicine.
In Australia, women make up 37 per cent of university enrolments in STEM and hold just 15 per cent of jobs in those sectors.
The prize aims to recognise mid-career women in STEM for their contributions to science and medicine and recognise future leaders, Murdoch Children's Research Institute director Kathryn North said.
"Supporting the next generation of women in science and medicine isn't just about equity, it's about excellence," Professor North said.
The judging panel is made up of several esteemed scientists and doctors, including Royal Children's Hospital centre for community child health director Sharon Goldfeld.
It was exciting for an international company to recognise the contributions of Australian women in STEM, Professor Goldfeld told AAP.
"Awards like this try to right some of the imbalance in the sector. It's not that there are no women in STEM, there are amazing women, but this is a leg up," she said.
"We talk about the 'cliff' in research where often early career researchers are tracking along well but then can't quite make it to the next stage. A prize like this helps to fix that."
Judges would be on the lookout for applicants who could communicate their research well, alongside excellent ideas.
"I am blown away by the amazing women scientists of today and their ability to traverse all sorts of sciences and think cleverly about the way they communicate," Prof Goldfeld said.
"We are looking for the STEM researcher who is not only excellent but also able to say why their research project is going to make a difference."
Applications are now open, with finalists to be honoured at a Parliament House reception and awards dinner in Canberra in November 2025.
