Singapore: The Australian Academy of Science has opened applications for its 2014 round of prestigious awards, including career and early career researcher awards, travelling fellowships, research bursaries and conference support.

Professor Suzanne Cory, president, Australian Academy of Science, said that, "The Australian Academy of Science will be directing close to $300 000 towards the 2014 awards as part of its commitment to celebrate and advance Australian science.

The awards recognise the achievements of both rising science stars and distinguished, established scientists of Australia, drawing attention to their remarkable discoveries. I encourage the widest diversity of scientists to nominate for these awards, and apply for fellowships and grants."

Past winners of honorific awards include Nobel Laureate Professor Brian Schmidt, bionic ear inventor Professor Graeme Clark, and conservation biologist Professor Hugh Possingham, whose work has influenced the management of national parks around the world.