A NSW researcher known for his groundbreaking work fusing robotics with human biology has been named the state's scientist of the year.
Professor Gordon Wallace from the University of Wollongong has been honoured for his work which could pave the way for implantable 3D-printed structures containing living cells to regenerate damaged cartilage, bone, and even organs.
The fusion of human biology with engineering and robotics could potentially fix specific medical conditions - from cancer to diabetes and neural diseases - by printing a functional 3D structure containing living cells and inserting it into their body via surgery.
"It is a great honour to have a fantastic team to captain and for our research to be recognised in this way," Prof Wallace said in a statement on Monday.
"We will continue to strive to ensure that our most fundamental discoveries are translated into real applications to the benefit of our communities in the most effective way possible."
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Prof Wallace, who is also a director of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science at UOW, is known for his use of nanotechnology with organic conductors to create new materials for energy conversion and storage, as well as medical bionics.
He is one of 10 researchers, innovators and educations recognised in the 2017 Premier's Prize for Science and Engineering.
Their work was critical to driving innovation in the state's economy, Premier Gladys Berejiklian said in a statement.
"Through their inspiring ingenuity and innovation this year's winners have delivered economic, environmental, health, social and technological benefits for the global community," she said.
"This year's prizes again demonstrate NSW has some of the world's best and brightest scientists and technologists across a diverse range of disciplines right here in our own backyard."
