Rutherford Medal
The Rutherford Medal recognises eminent research or technological practice by a person in any field of science, mathematics, social science, or technology.
Award details
Award offered: Annually
Prize: medal and prize money of $NZ100,000
The Rutherford Medal is the highest award instituted by the Royal Society Te Apārangi at the request of the Government to recognise eminent research or technological practice by a person in any field of science, mathematics, social science, or technology.
“Science and Technology” is taken to cover the fields of knowledge broadly known by the term “scientific culture”. It includes the applied, biological, earth, engineering, information, mathematical, medical, physical, social, and technological sciences. It also includes activities in the promotion and encouragement of science and technology, in improving public awareness, knowledge and understanding of science and technology, in science and technology education and in the management of scientific and technological societies and institutions.
In addition, exceptional contributions to the advancement and promotion of public awareness, knowledge and understanding will be considered.
A group award shall only be made in very meritorious circumstances.
Current status
The 2019 round has closed. The 2020 round will open in late December/early January with a closing date of 31 March.