In recognition of John de Laeter's dedication to fostering academic excellence and innovation, the medal is awarded annually at three leading Western Australian universities: The University of Western Australia (UWA), Curtin University, and Murdoch University.

The institutions present the awards to students who have demonstrated excellence in scientific research, academic achievement, and a commitment to advancing knowledge in their field. The medal serves as a symbol of Professor de Laeter’s vision, inspiring the next generation of scientists and scholars in Western Australia.

Award Conditions

Curtin University: This prize is presented to the top Physics Major with Honours student at Curtin University.

Murdoch University: This prize is presented to the Murdoch University student who has successfully completed all undergraduate units directly leading to a physics major (or equivalent) and achieved the highest average mark across those units.

The University of Western Australia: This prize is presented to the UWA student who has successfully completed all undergraduate physics units leading to a physics major (or equivalent) and achieved the highest Weighted Average Mark (WAM) across those units.

The prize will be given at a suitable university prize evening or the WA AIP AGM.

NB. As a condition of the award, recipients agree to their name being listed on the AIP website. Prior to 2024 awards were given to 3rd year and honours students.

Other John de Laeter Awards

There are two other unrelated awards in Western Australia honouring John de Later:

• John de Laeter Top Excellence Scholarship at Curtin University

• The de Laeter Medal