ChemCentre is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Ian Ritchie Staff Awards, recognising outstanding individuals who exemplify the organisation’s core values of technical excellence, integrity, respect and innovation.
Presented annually, the awards celebrate staff who have demonstrated exceptional contribution and impact through scientific advancement, collaborative leadership, client service, innovation and community engagement.
Established in honour of the late Professor Ian Ritchie AO, a distinguished scientist, educator, government advisor and community leader, the awards acknowledge his enduring legacy and significant influence on Western Australia’s scientific landscape.
Nominees were drawn from across all areas of ChemCentre and evaluated on excellence in several criteria, including:
- Customer service and client relationships
- Collaboration and support of colleagues
- Dedication to role and project outcomes
- Research, investigation and method development
- Identifying and pursuing new opportunities
- Outreach and promotion of ChemCentre
- Contribution to the broader community
This year’s awards ceremony was hosted by ChemCentre CEO, Paul Nicholls, and Board Chair, Tress Walmsley, who presented certificates and congratulated nominees and winners.
ChemCentre was also honoured to welcome Professor Sharath Sriram, Chief Scientist of Western Australia, who joined the award recipients for official photographs.
Ian Ritchie Early Career Award – Winner: Dr Catherine Rawlinson
ChemCentre congratulates Dr Catherine Rawlinson, Forensic Toxicology Scientist, on receiving the 2025 Ian Ritchie Early Career Award.
Catherine is recognised for her exceptional technical expertise, innovation and integrity within ChemCentre’s Toxicology team. Catherine is respected for her professionalism, positivity and collaborative spirit, consistently embodying the values of ChemCentre. Her dedication and resilience have made a meaningful contribution to the organisation and the Western Australian community it serves.
Ian Ritchie Achievement Award – Winner: Dr John Moursounidis
Dr John Moursounidis, Research & Innovation Manager, has been announced as the recipient of the 2025 Ian Ritchie Achievement Award.
John is acknowledged for his outstanding leadership, scientific excellence and strategic contribution to ChemCentre’s Research & Innovation portfolio. As the inaugural Manager of the R&I team, he has exceeded revenue targets and elevated ChemCentre’s research profile across government, industry and academia.
His impact has strengthened ChemCentre’s research direction and long-term scientific capability.
“The Ian Ritchie Awards are an important opportunity to recognise the exceptional talent and dedication within our organisation,” said Paul Nicholls, Chief Executive Officer of ChemCentre.
“Catherine and John both demonstrate the calibre of scientific leadership, integrity and innovation that strengthens ChemCentre’s impact for Western Australia. We are incredibly proud of their achievements, and of all staff who were nominated this year.”
ChemCentre congratulates all nominees, finalists and winners, Dr Catherine Rawlinson and Dr John Moursounidis, for their outstanding achievements and their continued commitment to scientific excellence in Western Australia.
