Hackett Professor Kadambot Siddique AM, director at the University of Western Australia's Institute of Agriculture, was honoured at the 2023 Premier's Science Awards ceremony on Monday night.

Siddique has dedicated his 35-year career to research, training, technology exchange and industry development, working closely with industry to significantly improve cereal and grain legume production in dryland environments.

His leadership and collaboration have resulted in new crop varieties and agronomic packages for grain growers. He was also recognised as an outstanding ambassador for WA, promoting sustainable agriculture and addressing global food security.

The Premier's Science Awards recognises and celebrates the outstanding scientific research and engagement taking place in WA, with the Scientist of the Year category recognising world class scientists who have demonstrated excellence in a field of science, scientific research or technological advancement.

Awards recipient will share in the total prize pool of $100,000, with Siddique to receive $50,000 for the Scientist of the Year category.

Premier Roger Cook congratulated all the winners, including Professor Siddique for his world class agricultural research.

"Last night's winners show that science is fundamental to our health and quality of life, our environment and our current and future economy," Cook said.

"I know each award recipient will go on to be amazing ambassadors for STEM in Western Australia and no doubt encourage many to follow in their footsteps."

The awards are a keystone in the WA Government's efforts to raise the profile of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in WA.