Ecologist wins Premier's science award

Tuesday, 29 August 2006

The University of Adelaide's Associate Professor David Paton has won a Premier's Science Excellence Award, recognising his research for having an impact on the public good.

Dr Paton won the Premier's Award for Excellence in Research for Public Good Outcomes, awarded at a ceremony at the Hyatt Regency hotel last night.

He was one of six outstanding researchers from the University of Adelaide nominated for various awards last night. The others included leaders in plant genetics, reproductive health, genetic diseases, urban biodiversity, and surgery.

Dr Paton, from the University's School of Earth & Environmental Sciences, won the award for his research into changes to native flora and fauna in South Australia.

His research has documented the influence of inadequate environmental flows on the Coorong, of habitat loss on woodland birds and pollination of native plants, of fire and drought on mallee heath communities, and rural tree decline.

"It is fitting that Associate Professor David Paton has been recognised for his excellence in research for public good outcomes. His work is aimed at better understanding the environment in which we live, and with that understanding it will be possible to make decisions that improve the management of our environment," says the University's Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Professor Alan Johnson.

"The natural environment is vital to the well-being of our State, and our planet. Dr Paton's research reminds us that the impact of changes to the environment - both to flora and fauna - can be huge, and we must do what we can to protect our environment.

"The pool of talent recognised at the Premier's awards represents the very best people in their fields. Dr Paton and the others from the University of Adelaide nominated for awards last night are to be commended for their work, which is of great importance to all South Australians."

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