Vice-Chancellors Awards

Categories and selection criteria

Choose an award Key dates

The Vice-Chancellor's Awards recognise excellence across teaching, research, leadership and professional services.

Community awards

Who can be nominated for Community awards

  • University staff who have been employed on a permanent basis for a period of no less than 12 months prior to the date of nomination.
  • University staff who have been employed on either a temporary contract of at least two years, or consecutive contracts totaling a minimum of 2 years.
  • Staff who have not received this award as an individual within the last 5 years.
  • Team nominations (where eligible) should not normally exceed 8 members.
  • Employees of UOW Global Enterprises and UOW Pulse are not eligible to be nominated for an award, unless they are part of a team nomination.
  • Self-nominations are accepted for all community-based awards.
  • Persons who hold honorary or casual appointments, are employed by campuses of the University outside of Australia, and academic visitors to the University may be included as part of a team nomination.
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members may be included as part of a team nomination to acknowledge and recognise that community partnerships are essential to our Indigenous advancement journey. Achievements are only made possible through the generous support and guidance of these communities.

Excellence in Community Engagement 

The University of Wollongong has a proud history of engaging with its multiple communities and enriching the student experience, research, teaching and learning. UOW remains committed to playing an active role in advancing and championing environmental, cultural, social and economic developments in its communities.

The Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Community Engagement was established in 2006 to recognise, reward and encourage exceptional community engagement, external relations, excellence in media communications and/or outreach. This award supports strategic initiatives related to enhancing UOW’s civic and social role, and promoting safe, respectful and socially inclusive communities. 

Selection Criteria

The Excellence in Community Engagement Award is for achievements in the 12 months preceding the closing date for nominations and will consider the outcome and impact of this contribution.

Nominations should cover:

  • Sustained demonstration of service or contribution that has had a significant community benefit, above and beyond the expectations of the staff member’s role.
  • Alignment to University’s Strategic Plan 2030 and Vision 2035.
  • Achievements in developing links, partnerships and/or programs between the University and external organisations, e.g. external relations, media communications, outreach, and research
  • Enhancing the reputation of the University as being actively engaged with the region and the communities it serves.
  • The extent to which the nominee(s) demonstrated behaviours aligned with UOW's Values in Action framework — thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for their commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in their actions and decisions.

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Global Engagement and Partnership Award

The Global Engagement and Partnership Award recognises staff who have achieved outstanding success, given exceptional service and/or have demonstrated extraordinary leadership or innovation in their work with a specific emphasis on driving UOW’s global strategy and profile.

Selection Criteria

The Global Engagement and Partnership Award is for achievements in the 12 months preceding the closing date for nominations and will consider the outcome and impact of this contribution. The nomination will meet one or more of the following selection criteria. An outstanding achievement or success directly contributing to the realisation of UOW’s Global Strategy.

  • Outstanding service and dedication to the University.
  • Implementation of an initiative or enhancement to work practices which has a demonstrated value to the Division, Faculty, and/or University in its global activities.
  • Demonstrated strong and sustained leadership and innovation in internationalisation.
  • The extent to which the nominee(s) demonstrated behaviours aligned with UOW's Values in Action framework — thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for their commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in their actions and decisions.

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Outstanding Service Award

The Outstanding Service Award recognises achievements in the workplace in the 12 months preceding the closing date for nominations. Achievements and impact will be measured relative to the nominee's position and performance expectations. There is a higher level of expectation in respect of higher-level positions because of the greater opportunities which exist for exercising initiative.

Selection Criteria

The nomination will meet one or more of the following selection criteria:

  • An outstanding achievement or success with a demonstrated value;
  • Outstanding customer service to Clients of the University/Division/Faculty/School, with a definable benefit to the client/s;
  • An outstanding or novel initiative or innovation which has been implemented and has a demonstrated value;
  • Changes or improvements to work practices of a definable benefit to the Division/Unit/School/University;
  • The extent to which the nominee(s) demonstrated behaviours aligned with UOW's Values in Action framework — thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for their commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in their actions and decisions.

Factors taken into account when determining the recipients of the award will include:

  1. The number of obstacles or degree of difficulty faced in the implementation or achievement;
  2. The value of the definable benefits to the University; and
  3. The degree of originality, and the significance of the impact to the wider University community; and
  4. Endorsement statement by the Executive Dean/Faculty Manager/Director.

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Marie Lewis Award

The Marie Lewis Award is in honour of the late Marie Lewis. Marie was a graduate of the University and worked in Student Administration between 1978 and 1997.

The Award recognises and celebrates a professional staff member who is successfully navigating the completion of a degree while working at UOW. This is awarded to an individual who demonstrates excellence in their role while maintaining high academic performance, acknowledging the unique skill required to achieve commendable results in both domains. 

Selection Criteria

The selection criteria for this award include:

  • High quality academic performance, as indicated by average mark.
  • Excellence and service to the University with demonstrated contribution and commitment.
  • The extent to which the nominee(s) demonstrated behaviours aligned with UOW's Values in Action framework — thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for their commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in their actions and decisions.

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Rosemary Cooper Award for Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

There are 2 categories for the Rosemary Cooper Award for Equity, Diversity & Inclusion:

  • Category A – Lived Experience Excellence Award
  • Category B – Initiatives and Programs

The Rosemary Cooper Award is in honour of the late Rosemary Cooper. Rosemary was a graduate of the University and worked in the Faculty of Commerce from 1991 to 2011. Rosemary had a disability, and performed at the highest possible level of professionalism, accuracy and detail. She was an outstanding employee in all respects and an exemplary role model for all staff of the University.

The University of Wollongong is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and we value and acknowledge the importance of the diverse experiences, talents and cultures of our staff and students. Embracing diversity and creating inclusion is a key component of attracting and retaining talent in our student cohort and in the UOW workforce. The creation of a diverse and inclusive environment is central to our ability to unlock potential, enhance our success and achieving our vision of being in the top one percent of Universities in the world.

Selection Criteria

Nominees can be recognised in one of two categories for this Award. Achievements in both categories may be in relation to single, multiple, or intersectional EDI areas and impacts.

 Category A: Lived Experience Excellence Award

Category A recognises a person who either has lived experience with EDI impacts, or has made significant contributions in advocating for, and supporting, staff and students with lived experience of EDI impacts.

Important Note: Nominators for this category MUST consult the person they are nominating prior to undertaking any steps toward the nomination process, including drafting the nomination. This award celebrates those who have lived experience and their allies. Personal information and details of EDI related impacts cannot be disclosed without consent. 

Nomination Criteria:
  • Living with EDI impact, supporting / advocating for those who are impacted, or both;
  • Acts as a role model, encouraging staff and students to embrace their full potential;
  • Demonstrates professional excellence in their role;
  • Enables and fosters a positive and inclusive workplace culture; and
  • Demonstrates a commitment to UOW’s EDI strategies and initiatives.
  • The extent to which the nominee(s) demonstrated behaviours aligned with UOW's Values in Action framework thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for their commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in their actions and decisions. 

Category B: Initiatives and Programs

Category B may include:

  • Education – the program or initiative develops teaching practice, curricula or learning environments that foster inclusion for a diverse range of students and staff; or
  • Research – the project outcomes represent a creative and innovative approach to developing diversity and inclusion; or
  • Workplace – programs and initiatives that promote collaboration, teamwork, equity, diversity and inclusive practices as valued, enduring and distinctive characteristics of our workforce; or
  • Culture – the program or initiative incorporates a cultural change approach to diversity which is embedded in the organisation; or
  • Community – the outcomes of the program/initiative engage the wider community, encourage participation and provide a benefit outside of the University. 
Nomination Criteria:
  • Purpose and outcomes – the extent to which the program or initiative has addressed the strategic plan goals around equity, diversity and inclusion, and has achieved the desired outcomes and targets,
  • Impact – the extent to which the program or initiative has benefitted students, staff or the broader community and has enhanced the reputation of the University,
  • Innovation – the degree of creativity, imagination, and innovation demonstrated within the program or initiative and new knowledge created, and
  • Sustainability – the program or initiative is shhhustainable, replicable and is embedded in UOW’s culture of excellence.
  • Values alignment – the extent to which the nominee(s) demonstrated behaviours aligned with UOW's Values in Action framework thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for their commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in their actions and decisions.

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The Kristy Adams Award for Excellence in Health & Safety

There are 3 categories for the Kristy Adams Award for Excellence in Health & Safety:

  • Category A – Safety Leadership Award (Individual)
  • Category B – Best Solution for a Workplace Hazard (Individual or Team)
  • Category C - Team Excellence in Health & Safety (Team) 

The Kristy Adams Award for Workplace Health and Safety aims to raise awareness of Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) requirements at the University and encourage, recognise and celebrate staff making significant contributions to improve safety performance at UOW. The award will be presented to employees, annually at the Vice-Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence Ceremony. Awards will only be issued for nominations which demonstrate exceptional and outstanding achievements.

This award is named in memory of Kristy Adams, whose dedication and passion for health and safety made her a highly respected team member of the WHS Unit. Through this award, we recognise her invaluable contribution to providing a safe environment for the UOW community.

Selection Criteria

This award is for outstanding success in the workplace in the 12 months preceding the closing date for nominations and will consider the outcome and impact of this contribution. The success must relate to the area of workplace health and safety.

Nominees can be recognised in one of three categories for this Award.

Nominators should ensure they provide evidence of the relevant criteria, and a brief summary of the benefit to the University. 

Category A: Safety Leadership Award (Individual)

Category A recognises an individual staff member who leads and enables best practice in WHS.

Nomination Criteria and Evidence Requirements: 

  • Excellence in process improvements and initiatives led by the nominee.
  • Proven achievements and contributions e.g. quantifiable risk reduction.
  • Demonstrated commitment above and beyond their immediate field/area of responsibility.
  • Dedication to enabling collaboration in implementing new initiatives.
  • Potential for replication of activities or initiatives within the wider UOW community.
  • The extent to which the nominee(s) demonstrated behaviours aligned with UOW's Values in Action framework - thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for their commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in their actions and decisions.

Category B: Best Solution for a Workplace Hazard (Individual or Team)

Category B recognises an individual or team who have demonstrated excellence in developing and implementing a solution to an identified health and safety issue.

Nomination Criteria and Evidence Requirements: 

  • A full description of the workplace health and safety issue, including risks.
  • Details of the solution implemented to address the issue and its effectiveness.
  • An explanation of the systematic approach (hierarchy of control) employed in the development of the solution to eliminate or minimise risk of injury.
  • Evidence of collaboration and excellence in stakeholder management (including external organisations if applicable).
  • Evidence of innovation and impact.
  • Potential for replication of activities or initiatives within the wider UOW community.
  • The extent to which the nominee(s) demonstrated behaviours aligned with UOW's Values in Action framework - thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for their commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in their actions and decisions.

Category C: Team Excellence in Health & Safety (Team)

Category C recognises excellence in the establishment, improvement, and/or maintenance of WHS practices by a team.

Nomination Criteria and Evidence Requirements: 

  • Evidence of a systematic approach to WHS management applied by the team.
  • Details of innovative approach to health and safety initiatives implemented by the team.
  • Demonstrated commitment to fostering a culture of safety through collaborative and consultative methods.
  • Commitment to awareness and advocacy of WHS issues.
  • Details of any improvements to WHS in team in local area.
  • Potential for replication of activities or initiatives within the wider UOW community.
  • The extent to which the nominee(s) demonstrated behaviours aligned with UOW's Values in Action framework - thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for their commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in their actions and decisions. 

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Indigenous Advancement Award

UOW is committed to creating new opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (Indigenous) and communities to connect, participate and grow through genuine and productive relationships with UOW.

The Vice Chancellor’s Indigenous Advancement Award recognises the commitment and valuable contributions of individuals and teams across UOW who have achieved outstanding outcomes within the University and beyond, in leading and enabling Indigenous advancement. The award is a symbol of achievement in fostering an inclusive community environment, actively creating Cultural Safety for staff and students and building relationships based on respect, reciprocity, responsibility.

It acknowledges deep commitment with an overarching aim to create learning, teaching and working environments that are free from racism and discrimination that embrace a united approach to equality and inclusiveness.

Selection Criteria

The Indigenous Advancement Award will be presented to UOW staff member/s for outstanding achievements in the 12 months preceding the closing date for nominations and will consider the outcome and impact of this contribution.

The selection criteria for this award include the following:

  • Demonstrated involvement in an activity which promotes &/or enables Indigenous advancement, cultural awareness, or Cultural Safety; beyond formal obligations to UOW Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Strategies / initiatives.
  • Outstanding achievement in activities or research related to Indigenous advancement strategies and initiatives, as an individual, team, faculty, or school.
  • Demonstrated ongoing commitment to advancing and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Strategic plans/initiatives at UOW.
  • The extent to which the nominee(s) demonstrated behaviours aligned with UOW's Values in Action framework — thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for their commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in their actions and decisions.

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Values in Action Ambassador of the Year

The Vice-Chancellor's Award for Values in Action Ambassador of the Year is the University's highest recognition for staff who shape UOW's culture through the consistent demonstration of our Values in Action.

The nominee consistently demonstrates three or more UOW Values in Action through their behaviours, decisions and interactions over time, positively influencing colleagues, students and the broader University community. Nominations should provide evidence of specific examples, the influence of those behaviours on others, and the impact achieved.

Selection Criteria

The Vice-Chancellor's Award for Values in Action Ambassador of the Year recognises individuals or teams who consistently bring the University of Wollongong's Values in Action to life through their everyday behaviours, positively influence those around them, and make a meaningful contribution to UOW's culture.

Nominations will be assessed against the following criteria: 

Demonstrates Values in Action

The nominee consistently demonstrates UOW’s Values in Action through their behaviour, decisions and interactions, positively influencing colleagues, students and the broader University community. Nominations should provide evidence of:

  • Values in Action - Specific examples of behaviour that reflect three or more of the Values in Action through their day-to-day behaviour, decisions and interactions. Examples should highlight sustained behaviour and actions, rather than one-off achievements.
  • Influence on others - How the nominee contributes to a positive, inclusive and values-led culture. Consider how they role model Values in Action and contribute to an environment where people feel values, empowered and connected to UOW’s purpose.
  • Impact - The difference made for colleagues, students, teams, stakeholders or the University community. This may include improvements to team culture, staff or student experience, collaboration, service delivery, engagement, wellbeing, innovation or organisational outcomes.

This award invites the UOW community to endorse nominees who demonstrate UOW's Values in Action through their behaviours, contributions and impact. Staff are invited to endorse finalists whose behaviours they have experienced or observed and who consistently bring the Values in Action to life.

Award recipients are determined through a balanced assessment framework, with 80% weighting allocated to the Selection Panel assessment and 20% to staff endorsements through the People’s Choice vote.

Assessment Principles

To ensure the integrity and fairness of the award:

  • Staff should vote based on demonstrated Values in Action behaviours and cultural contribution, rather than personal relationships or popularity.
  • Campaigning, canvassing for votes or self-promotion by nominees or others is not permitted.
  • The Selection Committee reserves the right to validate voting outcomes and determine the final recipient in accordance with these guidelines.

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Excellence in Research

Recognising leadership and excellence in research

The Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence in Research Awards recognise the outstanding contributions of UOW researchers and research partners who are advancing knowledge, driving innovation, and creating impact through research excellence. 

This group of awards recognises the contributions that academic staff and their partners are making towards research excellence by the subcategory awards.

More information and enquiries

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Researcher of the Year

What is the Vice-Chancellor’s Research Excellence Award for Researcher of the Year?  

The Vice-Chancellors Research Excellence Award for Researcher of the Year recognises an individual UOW researcher who has made an outstanding contribution to research. The Award celebrates researchers with proven international reputations undertaking research that is of major importance in its field and who have made a significant contribution in advancing knowledge, research outcomes and culture by:  

  • Maintaining an exceptional record of sustained high level research activity during their employment with the University, particularly within the last 5 years; or 
  • Spearheading a major research breakthrough, and 
  • Demonstrating excellent leadership and collaboration skills that empower a high-quality team environment for early and mid-career researchers, Higher Degree Research (HDR) candidates. 

Who is eligible?  

This award is open to academic staff who: 

  • Have been employed by the University for at least 2 years and have occupied their position for at least 12 months 
  • hold a full-time fractional (0.5 FTE or greater) academic and/or research position in the year of nomination 
  • Hold a guaranteed position that extends at least one year beyond the anticipated date of the Award being made 

Note: Past recipients of this award are not eligible to apply. 

The University is committed to workplace equity, diversity and inclusion and encourages nomination of suitable candidates from different backgrounds for this award.

Criteria 

The selection criteria for this award include the following.  

  • Significance of the research in contributing to new knowledge, innovation or advancement in the discipline. 
  • International recognition for sustained research excellence and leadership, particularly over the past five years, assessed against discipline-relevant quality indicators and norms such as research income, publications, HDR completions, awards, invited roles or other indicators of research excellence. 
  • Engagement and impact of the research, including benefits for the discipline, community, industry, government, policy or practice.  
  • Leadership and development of others, including leadership of research teams, interdisciplinary collaborations, HDR candidates, and early and mid-career researchers through mentoring, supervision and inclusive collaboration. 
  • Contribution to UOW’s research culture, including responsible research practice, research integrity, equity, diversity and inclusion, and initiatives that strengthen the University’s research environment. 
  • The extent to which the nominee demonstrates behaviours aligned with UOW’s Values in Action framework - thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in actions and decisions.  

How to nominate?  

  • A nomination must be made by one person who is familiar with the nominee’s field of research and achievements.  
  • The nominator must provide details of two referees, who can provide comment on the nominee’s performance against the selection criteria. Referees may be internal to UOW or external academics (e.g., collaborators, industry partners, colleagues).  
  • An Elements profile which is complete for each academic team member – See details on essential profile components and an ORCID ID record that is up to date. 
  • A CV of no more than 2 pages for the researcher being nominated must be included. CVs longer than 2 pages will deem the nomination ineligible. See Researcher of the Year Award - Example CV (PDF). 
  • Self-nominations will not be accepted. 

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Research Excellence for Emerging Researchers

What is the Vice-Chancellor’s Research Excellence Award for Emerging Researcher? 

The Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Emerging Researchers recognises outstanding early-career researchers who are within the first seven years of their research career and who have demonstrated excellence, impact and strong future potential. The Award celebrates high-quality research outcomes and acknowledges the important contribution emerging researchers make to UOW’s research culture, reputation and future research capability.  

Who is eligible?

This award is open to academic staff who: 

  • are employed by the University on either on a permanent basis or on a fixed term contract (at 0.5 FTE or greater) up to Level C in the year of the nomination and; 
  • have been awarded a PhD within the last seven years; and 
  • hold an appointment that extends at least one year beyond the anticipated date of the Award being made. 

Where a nominee does not satisfy criteria b) but considers they have an equivalent research degree or equivalent research experience, this should be addressed in the nomination. Note: Past recipients of this award are not eligible to apply. 

Circumstances which may be taken into account could include career interruptions due to non-research employment, misadventure or carer responsibilities. 

The University is committed to workplace equity, diversity and inclusion and encourages nomination of suitable candidates from different backgrounds for this award. 

Criteria

The selection criteria for this award include the following. 

  • Research excellence and trajectory - evidence of high-quality research performance, relative to opportunity, and a clear upward trajectory.  
  • Contribution to knowledge, innovation and impact - significance of the research in advancing knowledge, innovation, practice, policy, industry or community outcomes. 
  • Research outputs and outcomes - quality and significance of publications, competitive grants, commercial research income, HDR supervision and other discipline-relevant outputs.  
  • Recognition and standing - evidence of national and/or international recognition appropriate to career stage and discipline.  
  • Collaboration and interdisciplinary contribution - participation in collaborative or interdisciplinary research, including engagement with academic, industry, government or community partners.  
  • Research integrity, culture and Values in Action - evidence of responsible research practice, contribution to UOW’s research culture, support for equity, diversity and inclusion, and behaviours aligned with UOW’s Values in Action.  

How to nominate?

Each nomination must include: 

  • a completed nomination form addressing the selection criteria; 
  • a two-page CV for the nominee, prepared in accordance with the Emerging Researcher of the Year Award - Example CV (PDF); 
  • confirmation that the nominee’s Elements profile and ORCID record are up to date; and 
  • the required nominator and Executive Dean or Deputy Dean Research certification. 
  • A nomination may be made by a single nominator. Self-nominations will not be accepted.

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Team Research Excellence

What is the Vice-Chancellor’s Team Research Excellence Award?

The Vice-Chancellor’s Team Research Excellence Award recognises outstanding research achievement made possible through exceptional teamwork. It celebrates UOW research teams who collaborate within or across discipline boundaries, combining their expertise to deliver significant outcomes in research excellence, knowledge exchange or impact. The Award recognises ground-breaking research that could not have been achieved through individual contribution alone, and encourages innovative research that demonstrates the value of cooperation. 

Who is eligible?

This award is open to research teams involving UOW staff. The research may relate to a single project or a sustained body of work, and must demonstrate achievements made jointly by the team rather than by individual researchers working separately. 

To be eligible, the research must have: 

  • been undertaken by a team working within or across disciplinary boundaries; 
  • been led by currently employed UOW staff members, with the nominated team not normally exceeding eight members; 
  • produced excellent outcomes within the last five years, such as internationally respected publications, significant reports, changes in practice, knowledge exchange, translation or other evidence of research impact; 
  • demonstrated sustained recent collaboration; and 
  • included evidence of mentoring, support or development of fellow team members, research scholars or staff. 

UOW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and encourages nominations that reflect the diversity of our staff, disciplines, teams and research communities.

Criteria

The selection criteria for this award include the following: 

  • Research excellence and significance - the quality, originality and significance of the research, including the contribution it has made to knowledge, practice, policy, industry or the broader community. 
  • Research impact and benefits - evidence of the benefits generated by the research, including outcomes such as publications, research income, knowledge exchange, translation, intellectual property, reputation, partnerships or student opportunities. 
  • Innovation and approach - the novelty of the conceptual, methodological or investigative approach, including the way the team has brought together different disciplines, perspectives or research paradigms. 
  • Collaboration and teamwork - the strength, effectiveness and distinctiveness of the collaboration, including how the team worked together to achieve outcomes that could not have been delivered by individuals working separately. 
  • Development of others - the contribution the team has made to mentoring, supporting and developing research scholars, early career researchers, staff or other team members. 
  • Research integrity - evidence that the research was conducted in accordance with national principles of research integrity and responsible research conduct. 
  • Professional research profile - completion of an Elements profile for each academic team member, including essential profile components and an up-to-date ORCID record. 
  • Values in Action - evidence that the team demonstrated behaviours aligned with UOW’s Values in Action framework, including inclusive and collaborative ways of working, excellence and continuous improvement, accountability, and integrity. 

Note: Interdisciplinary collaborations involving two or more distinct disciplines will be viewed favourably. 

How to nominate?

Nominations may be submitted by a current or former UOW staff member. Self-nominations are accepted. Nominations must include: 

  • a signed nomination form; 
  • a testimonial of no more than three A4 pages that explains why the research team should be recognised and addresses the selection criteria; 
  • a two-page team capability statement (See Capability Statement Requirements (PDF)); and 
  • any required signatures or certifications. 

The testimonial should clearly describe the team’s achievements, including the nature and value of the collaboration, the research outcomes achieved, and the contribution made to research excellence, knowledge exchange, translation or impact.

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Outstanding Achievement in Research Partnership and Impact

What is the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in Research Partnership and Impact?

The Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in Research Partnership and Impact recognises UOW researchers who build strong external partnerships that deliver measurable research impact. This award celebrates researchers who translate research into real-world benefit through collaboration with industry, government or community partners. It recognises researchers who: 

  • Initiate, develop or lead research partnerships that create clear value for UOW and its partners.  
  • Translate research into practical outcomes, including policy, practice, commercial, community or sector impact.  
  • Build sustained and productive collaborations that strengthen UOW’s reputation, capability and external engagement.  
  • Demonstrate UOW’s Values in Action through inclusive, accountable and impactful ways of working. 

Who is eligible?

This award is open to academic staff who: 

  • are employed by the University on either a permanent basis or on a fixed term contract who are involved in a research partnership (including collaborative research, commercialisation, contract research, or a collaborative grant project such as an ARC Linkage) in the previous 12 months prior to the date of nomination. 

Note: Partners can be government departments, businesses, industry, not-for-profit organisations or other non-university research institutions (e.g. CSIRO or ANSTO). Other universities are not considered eligible partners. Projects involving multiple partners are eligible so long as at least one partner is an eligible partner. 

Note: Past recipients of this award are not eligible to apply. 

The University is committed to workplace equity, diversity and inclusion and encourages nomination of suitable candidates from different backgrounds for this award. 

Criteria

The selection criteria for this award include the following: 

  • Contributed significantly to the partnership by initiating, developing, delivering or strengthening the research partnership or commercial research engagement.  
  • Built a strong and productive partnership through effective communication, mutual benefit, partner satisfaction and shared commitment to outcomes.  
  • Delivered measurable research impact for UOW, partners, industry, government, communities or the broader sector.  
  • Created future value by sustaining, extending or building on the partnership, outcomes or impact beyond the current project.  
  • Demonstrated values-led and responsible practice through research integrity, accountability, collaboration, inclusion and alignment with UOW’s Values in Action. 

Nominations should be based on one research partnership. The number of partnerships held by a nominee will not be considered, and nominees are encouraged to select the partnership that best demonstrates the criteria. 

How to nominate?

Nominations must be submitted using this form linked below and coordinated by the nominator. The nominator may be a current or former UOW staff member, a research partner representative, or the nominee. 

  • A complete nomination must include: 
  • a completed nomination form 
  • a signed testimonial of up to three pages addressing the award criteria, uploaded to the form
  • an optional partner letter of support of up to two pages, uploaded to the form
  • a completed Elements profile and up-to-date ORCID ID for each academic nominee
  • relevant signatures and certification. 

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Excellence in Research Supervision

What is the Vice-Cha5ncellor’s Award for Excellence in Research Supervision?

The Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Research Supervision recognises ongoing commitment and dedication to successful Higher Degree Research (HDR) candidate supervision. Two Awards will be offered: 

  • Excellence in Research Supervision for Emerging Researchers (Levels A-C), and 
  • Excellence in Research Supervision (Levels D-E). 

The winners will receive a certificate and a cash prize and will be formally acknowledged at the annual Vice-Chancellor’s Awards ceremony held in August. 

Awards will only be issued for nominations which demonstrate exceptional and outstanding achievements. 

Who is eligible?

This award is open to academic staff who: 

  • are registered in the HDR Supervisor Registration System; 
  • have received at least two HDR candidate nominations; 
  • are employed at >0.5FTE by the University on either a continuing appointment or fixed-term contract of at least two years; and  
  • have been employed by the University for a period of no less than 12 months prior to the date of nomination.
  • Previous recipients of a Vice-Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Research Supervision are not eligible for further nomination for this award. 

 Criteria

Supervisors nominated for this award will be assessed on the following criteria:

  1. HDR Candidate Outcomes

Evidence of successful HDR candidate outcomes, including completion rates, timely completions, candidate achievements, and post-graduation career outcomes.

  1. Excellence in Research Supervision Practice

Evidence of high-quality supervision practices that support research capability, responsible research conduct, candidate wellbeing, and the academic and professional development of HDR candidates.

  1. Research Impact and Researcher Development

Evidence of initiatives that enhance the quality, impact and engagement of HDR research, including opportunities for industry engagement, internships, collaboration, knowledge exchange and career readiness.

  1. Leadership and Contribution to Research Supervision Culture

Evidence of leadership in research supervision through continuing professional development, mentoring of supervisors, sharing effective practices, and contributions to strengthening HDR supervision at UOW.

  1. Demonstration of UOW Values in Action

Evidence of behaviours aligned with UOW's Values in Action framework, including thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity.

 Outcome

The Vice-Chancellor’s Research Awards Ranking Committee will consider all eligible nominations and make the final decision regarding the award winners as per the Vice-Chancellor’s Awards timeline. Both successful and unsuccessful nominees will be notified. The winners will be announced at the annual Vice-Chancellor’s Awards ceremony.

 Equity and Diversity

The University is committed to workplace equity, diversity and inclusion and encourages nomination of suitable candidates from different backgrounds for this award.

Guidelines

Higher Degree Research Candidate Guidelines 

Higher Degree Research candidates or Alumni who have completed their HDR degree in the last 12 months, wishing to support their supervisor's nomination can: 

  • Nominate their current or previous principal or co-supervisor using the HDR Candidate Testimonial template; 
  • Nominate more than one supervisor with a separate Testimonial for each nominee; 
  • Email testimonials to uow academy email by nomination closing date. 
Nominated Supervisor Guidelines 

Eligible nominated supervisors will be invited to submit a supporting statement, using the Nominated Supervisor Statement template. 

Faculty Endorsement 

Eligible nominations will be referred by UOW Academy to the relevant Faculty for endorsement. 

The Faculty endorsement confirms that: 

  • the Faculty supports the nomination; and 
  • the information provided is, to the best of the Faculty's knowledge, accurate. 

The Faculty endorsement should be provided by the Deputy Dean Graduate Research or nominee. No separate supporting statement is required. 

 UOW Academy Guidelines  

The UOW Academy will: 

  • Collate all HDR Candidate Testimonials. 
  • Advise eligible supervisors when they receive at least two HDR Candidate nominations. 
  • Provide instructions to eligible supervisors regarding the Nominated Supervisor Statement. 
  • Collate all Nominated Supervisor Statements. 
  • Seek Faculty endorsement for all eligible nominations. 
  • Submit final nominations to the Selection Committee. 
  • Coordinate with the Selection Committee and provide outcomes to nominees. 

Nominate now

Innovator of the Year Award

What is the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Innovator of the Year? 

The VC Award for Innovator of the Year Award recognises a university researcher who shows demonstrable innovation and measurable impact. This award aims to recognise and encourage outstanding innovation achievements by UOW researchers who have demonstrated exceptional translation, real world impact and innovation leadership It celebrates individuals who: 

  • Have developed breakthrough innovations that create measurable benefit for society, industry, government, or communities. 
  • Have translated research into practice, including commercialisation, policy change, product development, or community adoption. 
  • Have demonstrated leadership in innovation ecosystems, including entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and though leadership. 
  • Have advanced UOW’s innovation culture, including demonstrating our Values in Action 

Who is eligible?  

This award is open to academic staff who: 

  • Have been employed by the University for at least 2 years and have occupied their position for at least 12 months 
  • Hold a minimum fractional (0.5 FTE or greater) academic and/or research position in the year of nomination 
  • Hold a guaranteed position that extends at least one year beyond the anticipated date of the Award being made. 

Note: Past recipients of this award are not eligible to apply. 

The University is committed to workplace equity, diversity and inclusion and encourages nomination of suitable candidates from different backgrounds for this award. 

 Criteria

The selection criteria for this award include the following: 

  • Significance of the body of work in contributing to the translation of knowledge and /or innovations to have benefit for society, industry, government, or communities. 
  • Recognition internationally for sustained and excellent innovation leadership, particularly in the past five years. Performance should be considered against quality indicators and global norms in addition to more general measures of innovation, which may include patents, licences, spinouts, translational outputs, and other indicators of innovation excellence. 
  • Successful and sustained encouragement of team members (including) HDR candidates and early and mid-career researchers in innovation focused activities. This includes fostering entrepreneurial capability, supporting translational pathways, and empowering diverse innovative teams. 
  • Recognition as a significant contributor to the innovation culture of UOW, this may include contributions to innovation strategy, industry engagement, or initiatives that strengthen UOW’s innovation ecosystem.  
  • The extent to which the nominee(s) demonstrated behaviours aligned with UOW's Values in Action framework - thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for their commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in their actions and decisions. 

How to Nominate

  • A nomination must be made by one person who is familiar with the nominee’s field of research and achievements.  
  • The nominator must provide details of two referees, who can provide comment on the nominee’s performance against the selection criteria. Referees may be internal to UOW or external (e.g., collaborators, industry partners, colleagues). 
  • An Elements profile which is complete for each academic team member – details on essential profile components are available here, and an ORCID ID record that is up to date. 
  • Self-nominations will not be accepted. 

Nominate now

Outstanding Contribution to Teaching and Learning

Recognising leadership and excellence in teaching and learning

The Vice-Chancellor’s Awards for Outstanding Contribution to Teaching and Learning (OCTAL) recognise UOW staff who have made significant contributions to teaching and learning excellence. The awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and commitment to enhancing the student learning experience.

Category awards

  • Vice-Chancellor’s OCTAL Award – One overall recipient across the University.
  • Faculty Teaching Award – Awarded within each faculty, UOW Global Enterprises and Central Learning & Teaching Units.
  • Early Career Faculty Teaching Award – Recognises outstanding contributions from early career academics.
  • Sessional Lecturer, Tutor or Demonstrator Award – Celebrates excellence in sessional teaching.
  • Program that Enhances Learning Award – Recognises programs that significantly improve student learning and engagement.
  • Professional Services Staff Award – Acknowledges staff whose work makes an outstanding contribution to student learning.

OCTAL Award intranet page

Submit nomination

UOW Values in Action

In addition to the selection criteria, nominations should demonstrate how the nominee's achievements reflect UOW's Values in Action framework — thriving together through inclusive and collaborative ways of working, pursuing excellence and continuous improvement, being accountable for their commitments and outcomes, and leading with integrity in their actions and decisions.

Thrive together

We cultivate diverse and inclusive communities by valuing every voice – supporting, respecting, collaborating, and caring for one another.

Pursue Excellence

We set ambitious goals and lead the way, pursuing excellence, innovation and ways to adapt, improve and grow.

Be Accountable

We take personal responsibility, act with purpose, and empower ourselves and others, following through to deliver on our commitment.

Lead with Integrity

We are honest, transparent, and authentic, always acting with integrity and upholding the standards, policies, and laws that guide us.

Eligibility by award guide

Community awards

Outstanding Contribution to Teaching and Learning

Excellence in Research

To support a fair and consistent selection process, proposed winners will be subject to a People & Culture review, including consideration of any current investigations or performance matters that may be relevant to the award decision.

Vice-Chancellor's Awards Procedure

Enquiries

If you have any questions, please contact the team

culture-talent-reward@uow.edu.au