Zonta Science Award 2024
Applications now open
Applications for the 18th Biennial Zonta Science Award are open.
This is the 18th award since its inception in 1990.
Application deadline
Applications must be received by 24 January 2024.
Aims of the award
The Zonta Science Award was established to further the status of women in scientific fields. The Award is for an emerging woman scientist — a recent PhD graduate rather than a woman well established in the science field.
The Award aims to:
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encourage women to pursue a career in science
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recognise women in scientific fields
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acknowledge the valuable contribution of women scientists.
Award criteria
Applicants must be a woman who has / is:
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a New Zealand resident
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a PhD — usually within 7 years of graduation
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excelled in the fields of pure or applied science (excluding clinical medicine, for example medical research that involves human subjects)
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studying for further post-doctorate qualifications or is involved in research that has widespread benefits
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ability to communicate to peers and non-scientists
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contributing to her community
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actively promoting science as a career for women
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advocates for these women
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likely to gain further career advancement from receiving this award.
How to apply
Apply using the Zonta Wellington Science Award 2024 application form (Word 99 KB)
What the winner receives
The award recipient receives:
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$20,000 cash to fund travel, education, materials and /or activities that will advance her research and career
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a bespoke commemorative medal
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a certificate of achievement.
The selection process
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Selection — Up to 10 finalists will be selected from all applicants.
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Review — Finalists are referred to a panel of invited judges who have university, government, science, industrial or business backgrounds.
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Shortlist — The judges assess the candidates against the criteria and shortlist up 3 applicants.
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Interviews — The short-listed applicants will be interviewed in Wellington in April 2024 and a winner selected.
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Award ceremony — To be held in Wellington May 2024
The award recipient's requirements
The Award recipient will be asked to:
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travel as soon as practicable after receiving the award
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provide photo and promotional opportunities and give media interviews as requested
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provide a written report within one month of their return to New Zealand on the benefits of receiving the award and the research outcomes
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speak to relevant groups including Zonta Clubs, schools, and other service or community groups
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speak at a sponsor's meeting if requested about the award, the outcomes, and the research benefits it provided
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maintain contact with the Convenor of the Zonta Science Award.
Sponsorship
The Zonta Club of Wellington makes an annual financial contribution in addition to
administering the award.
A full list of previous sponsors can be found in the album of previous winners (PDF 102 KB).
We're very grateful for the support received from our sponsors and the recipient is expected to acknowledge them when appropriate.