From AI detecting dementia and forecasting marine heatwaves to advances in quantum science, the 2026 Eureka Prizes celebrate Australia’s scientists turning tomorrow’s ideas into today’s breakthroughs.
Sydney, Wednesday — The Australian Museum (AM) has announced the finalists of the 2026 Australian Museum Eureka Prizes, recognising the outstanding homegrown scientists, innovators and communicators that drive exploration and discovery across Australia.
Spanning 19 categories, including the new Australian Research Data Commons Eureka Prize for Excellence in Data Platforms, this year’s awards recognise 58 finalists representing 150 individuals from across Australia.
Australian Museum Director and CEO Kim McKay AO said the AM Eureka Prizes continue to showcase the extraordinary depth and diversity of Australian science.
“For 36 years, the Australian Museum Eureka Prizes has celebrated scientific collaboration, research and innovation. Recognising this work matters, not just for the researchers themselves, but for every young Australian who might see a future for themselves in science. The Eureka Prizes show the next generation that curiosity and determination are valued, and that their questions about the world could help shape it for the future.”
“One look at this year’s finalists, and it’s clear that Australian science is at the forefront of helping to solve global challenges. Whether improving healthcare, adapting to climate change, advancing clean energy or building trust in emerging technologies, these researchers and science communicators are creating and sharing knowledge with real-world impact,” McKay said.
Highlights from the 2026 finalists include:
- A First Nations astrophysicist inspiring millions online;
- Early detection of dementia using AI;
- Transforming carbon emissions into sustainable aviation fuel;
- Developing therapies for rare skin diseases once thought impossible to treat; and
- 3D-printed arteries helping predict stroke risk.
Other finalists include teams tackling bias in artificial intelligence, developing technologies to reshape quantum chemistry, restoring coral reefs, and preparing Australia to withstand future disasters.
Explore the full list of 2026 finalists and their groundbreaking work HERE.
Winners of the 2026 Australian Museum Eureka Prizes will be announced on Thursday 3 September at Sydney Town Hall. A livestream of the awards will also be available online, to register visit: australian.museum/eurekaprizes.
Interviews available with finalists
Media pack, including finalist images and video HERE
#EurekaPrizes Twitter: @eurekaprizes Facebook: @eurekaprizes
EVENT DETAILS
What: Australian Museum Eureka Prizes Award Ceremony
Where: Sydney Town Hall, George St, Sydney.
When: Thursday 3 September 2026
Live broadcast from 6:30pm AEST via australian.museum/eurekaprizes
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Matt Fraser E: matt@moxee.au M: 0401 326 007
Vyvy Yong E: vyvy@moxee.au M: 0412 090 372
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About the Australian Museum
The Australian Museum (AM) was founded in 1827 and is the nation’s first museum. In 2027 it will mark its 200th anniversary. It is internationally recognised as a natural science and culture institution focused on Australia and the Pacific. The AM’s mission is to ignite wonder, inspire debate and drive change. The AM’s vision is to be a leading voice for the richness of life, the Earth and culture in Australia and the Pacific. The AM commits to transforming the conversation around climate change, the environment and wildlife conservation; to being a strong advocate for First Nations cultures; and to continuing to develop world-leading science, collections, exhibitions and education. With 22 million objects and specimens and the Australian Museum Research Institute (AMRI), the AM is not only a dynamic source of reliable scientific information on some of the most pressing environmental and social challenges facing our region, but also an important site of cultural exchange and learning.
Visit www.australian.museum