Marinova Scientist Wins Prestigious National Chemistry Award
Dr Vicki Gardiner, Operations Manager at Marinova, was last night announced as the 2012 recipient of the RK Murphy Medal by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI). This prestigious accolade is awarded for outstanding achievement in process chemistry, chemical engineering or related areas in the chemical industry, including commercial and marketing functions.
In addition to her contribution to the success of Marinova, Dr Gardiner has been instrumental in initiating several high profile national initiatives to promote chemistry. These have included the Women in Science project – a collaborative project between the RACI, Science and Technology Australia, the Bio21 Cluster and University of Melbourne – and the National Chemistry Interaction Exhibition which is currently touring Australia.
Speaking last night at the award ceremony in Wellington, New Zealand, Dr Gardiner cited an enthusiasm for chemistry and a passion for encouraging the next generation of scientists as being the driving forces behind her achievement. “We are all deeply indebted to science; without science – and without the contributions made by chemists in particular – we would not be enjoying the high standards of living that we all now take for granted. I am a strong believer in encouraging the students of today to develop an enquiring mind. I also believe in fostering an enthusiasm for problem solving and generating an appreciation for the potential of chemistry and its contribution to society”.
Dr Gardiner cites Marinova as one example of how a team of like-minded and passionate scientists can contribute to the growth and success of an enterprise that is now recognised globally as the leader in its field.
The R K Murphy Medal is the most prestigious honour awarded by the Industrial Chemistry Division of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute. The award consists of a medal, an official citation and $2500, which Dr Gardiner will apply towards promoting chemistry in Tasmanian primary schools.