UQ space and genetics pioneers honoured by Academy of Science

Two University of Queensland researchers advancing global understanding of space and human genetics have been recognised by the Australian Academy of Science for outstanding contributions to their respective fields. 

Cosmologist Dr Cullan Howlett, who received the Pawsey Medal for outstanding research in physics, helped assemble the most comprehensive map of the universe to date and co‑led the discovery of a massive local “bubble” of galaxies known as Ho'oleilana. 

Geneticist Dr Nicole Warrington, who received the Ruth Stephens Gani Medal for outstanding research in human genetics, has identified hundreds of genetic variants linked to human traits. As part of this, she developed a statistical method showing that the link between birthweight and adult cardiometabolic disease is driven by genetic factors. 

These prestigious awards acknowledge the scientific achievements of early‑career researchers within 10 years of completing their PhDs.