Woodward Medals

Overview

The Woodward Medal in Science and Technology and the Woodward Medal in Humanities and Social Sciences (collectively ‘The Woodward Medals’) were established in 2001 from a trust donated by Sir Edward Woodward, a former Chancellor of the University, and Lady Lois Woodward, and supplemented by the office of the Vice-Chancellor on behalf of the University.

Up to two Woodward Medals are awarded annually to University of Melbourne staff for research published within the preceding five years that is considered to have made the most significant contribution to knowledge and research excellence in fields relating to ‘Science and Technology’ (STEM) and ‘Humanities and Social Sciences’ (HASS) respectively.

Funding

The Woodward Medals are struck in silver and presented to awardees during a graduation ceremony. The cash prize of $10,000 for each Woodward Medalist is provided by DVCR strategic funds.

How to apply

1. Log into SmartyGrants to begin the application form.
2. Members of staff who are applying for a Woodward Medal must be supported in writing by a colleague in the applicant's faculty, who has knowledge of the applicant's field ("internal support statement"), and sign-off of the internal support statement must be provided by the Dean of the Faculty, Associate Dean (Research) or relevant Head of Department/School. The internal support statement must address the nature of the publication or work and its significant contribution to knowledge/research excellence.
3. Additionally, the application must also include a written supporting statement from an independent expert who is external to the University, such as a preeminent researcher in the field or a publisher ("external support statement").
4. Digital access to the research work(s) under consideration is preferred.  Applicants are  encouraged to provide a digitised copy of publications, if possible, or submit a final proof version of the publication via email. If a digital copy of the work is not available, the applicant should contact the RDS team to discuss alternatives - res-devschemes@unimelb.edu.au

Supporting documents

Documents for 2026:

• 2026 Woodward Medal Funding Guidelines
• Link to Application Form 
• Woodward Medallists

Contacts