The Australian Museum (AM) has announced the finalists of the 2026 Australian Museum Eureka Prizes, recognising the outstanding homegrown scientists, innovators and communicators that drive exploration and discovery across Australia.

Spanning 19 categories, this year’s awards recognise 58 finalists representing 150 individuals from across Australia.

OzGrav is proud to congratulate Dr Kirsten Banks, who has been named a finalist in the 2026 Celestino Eureka Prize for Promoting Understanding of Science.

Kirsten is a Wiradjuri astrophysicist bridging gaps in space science for audiences often missed by traditional science communication. Reaching nearly one million followers and 115 million views in 2025, she combines social media, broadcast commentary, live events, school programs and First Nations astronomy advocacy to make astrophysics accessible.

The Australian Museum Eureka Prizes are Australia’s premier science awards, celebrating excellence in research, innovation, leadership and science communication. This year’s finalists represent the remarkable breadth of scientific talent and impact across the country.

Everyone at OzGrav congratulates Kirsten on this outstanding and well-deserved recognition. We wish her all the very best for the Australian Museum Eureka Prizes awards ceremony, to be held at Sydney Town Hall on 3 September 2026.

Image: Dr Kirsten Banks, 2026 Eureka Prizes Finalist – Promoting Understanding of Science.