Molecular Maverick Award

The prestigious Molecular Maverick Award steps beyond academic accolades.

This inaugural award rewards and encourages innovators and changemakers — final-year PhDs in Chemistry-related disciplines with the drive, creativity, scientific knowledge and collaborative capacity to leave an indelible mark on the world around them.

The Molecular Maverick Award celebrates those who see opportunity where others see challenge; those with exceptional vision and skill, and the courage to break free from traditional boundaries in academia and industry, and change the game entirely.

About the Molecular Maverick Award

The Molecular Maverick Award recognises the exceptional talent of UQ PhD students in Chemistry-related disciplines. In 2025, the successful recipient will receive a $5,000 award to support their entrepreneurial and research endeavours.

Details about the application process, including the pitch evening, will be released in December 2024.

See details of the Molecular Maverick Award launch event

What makes a Molecular Maverick?

  • Insatiable curiosity
  • Perspective beyond academia
  • Leadership and impact
  • Community building
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Business acumen
  • Creative, along with critical thinking

Founding donors and supporters

It all started with a vision.

Empowering future innovators

Our vision is to raise $250,000 to enable the next generation of molecular scientists. Help make this a reality — donate to the Molecular Maverick Award.

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