Dr Kai Xun Chan has been named 2017 ACT Scientist of the Year. Dr Chan’s research looks at the effect of drought conditions on plants, and the ability of some plants to sense drought stress. His career breakthrough was the identification of a novel stress sensor protein that controls the pores on leaves of drought-stressed plants. His work is helping to find ways to improve drought tolerance in crops.

The annual ACT Emerging Scientist of the Year Award recognises the achievements of an up-and-coming local scientist with significant potential to continue to achieve in their chosen field of research.

The award comes with $30,000 in prize money.

The award:

• celebrates excellence in scientific research and innovation in the ACT
• showcases the contribution that local scientists make to science and innovation
• inspires and encourages students to consider careers in STEM.