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Leading autism researcher, Professor Andrew Whitehouse from The University of Western Australia and Telethon Kids Institute, has today been named a finalist in the 3M Eureka Prize for Emerging Leader in Science.

Presented annually, the prestigious Australian Museum Eureka Prizes reward excellence in the fields of research and innovation, leadership, science engagement and school science.

The nomination of Professor Whitehouse is in recognition of his outstanding leadership in the area of autism which includes significant research achievements combined with scientific and policy leadership, science communication, and service development.

Professor Whitehouse’s research career has focussed on discovering the causes of autism, developing methods for the identification of autism within the first year of life, and the trialling of new therapies for these babies.

Professor Whitehouse is also a passionate science communicator, contributes to the advancement of science through his supervision, editorial and reviewer roles, and works with policymakers to improve outcomes for children and families.

At Telethon Kids, he leads a team of over 20 researchers who use a wide range of methodologies to develop new methods for the early detection and intervention of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Professor Whitehouse said it was an honour to be named a finalist for a Eureka Prize.

“I am incredibly grateful for the support, encouragement and guidance I have received from my colleagues, mentors, and most importantly, the autism community,” Professor Whitehouse said.

“The Autism Team at Telethon Kids is undertaking a range of innovative new studies that will hope will ultimately reduce the disability associated with autism and help every child reach their full potential. I am humbled to lead such a creative and dedicated team, and to work with the wonderful autism community.”

Telethon Kids Institute Director Professor Jonathan Carapetis congratulated Professor Andrew Whitehouse on his nomination.

"I am extremely proud of Professor Whitehouse’s accomplishments which make him a very deserving Eureka finalist," Professor Carapetis said.

“Professor Whitehouse is a visionary Autism researcher and outstanding scientific leader, who is passionate about improving the lives of children with Autism. There are few researchers in the world who combine his level of scientific achievements with an ability to translate research into policy, communicate effectively with the community about the latest research findings, and work with diverse stakeholders to develop services for kids with autism.”

The winners will be announced at a gala dinner in Sydney on 30 August 2017.

Media references

David Stacey (UWA Media and PR Manager)              (+61 8) 6488 3229 / (+61 4) 32 637 716