JAKARTA - The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), in partnership with Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a global safety science company, has launched the third annual ASEAN-U.S. Science Prize for Women.

The 2017 prize will recognize a female scientist from the ASEAN region. The winner will receive a $20,000 award and recognition during the 2017 ASEAN ministerial meeting on science and technology hosted in Myanmar. Candidates should be 40 years of age or younger at the time of submission with an area of expertise related to this year’s theme. Applications and nominations will be accepted from May 3 until June 23, 2017 at http://bit.ly/sprules.

Rapid urbanization is a trend affecting cities around the world, particularly cities in Southeast Asia, due to increased economic investments in the region. This trend of massive growth does not come without challenges, like increased pressure on infrastructure and public service systems, disease spread, and shocks resulting from natural disasters. Therefore, this year’s prize will center on urban resilience with a focus on health, transportation and infrastructure, and workforce safety.

"The ASEAN-U.S. Science Prize for Women emphasizes the role of female professionals working in applied science who use their work to better society in safe and sustainable ways and act as role models for other women working in and pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and math fields,” said U.S. Mission to ASEAN Chargé d'Affaires Jane Bocklage.

“We must recognize and encourage scientists to continue their work towards resilience and improving the safety and wellbeing of the fast-growing urban populations,” said Barb Guthrie, Chief Public Safety Officer, UL.

"Through their work, these women help cities harness the positive effects of rapid urbanization for the benefit of all residents of ASEAN region. Advances in applied sciences promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth in Southeast Asia,” said Cheong Lee Sing, Head of Science and Technology Division, ASEAN Secretariat.

The ASEAN-U.S. Science Prize for Women is one of the many U.S. initiatives in support of ASEAN and its 10 Member States. The U.S. partners with ASEAN to support economic integration, expand maritime cooperation, cultivate emerging leaders, promote opportunity for women, and address transnational challenges. Through USAID’s cooperation with ASEAN, the U.S. addresses the root causes of poverty and instability and help lay the foundation for  prosperity and security. The U.S. and ASEAN celebrate 40 years of partnership in 2017.

For additional information, visit U.S. Mission to ASEAN and USAID Asia.