04/09/2026
π Canberra, ACT
The Testing Traces team (Professor Malcolm McLeod, Blake Curtis and Jessica Algar) from ANU were recognised for their work in rapidly identifying dangerous new drugs brought into and as finalists in the 2026 Australian Museum Eureka Prizes, Australiaβs most prestigious science awards.
Since 2022, the team has achieved several world-first detections of dangerous drugs from samples submitted to CanTEST Health and Drug Checking Service.
These discoveries allow health authorities to issue public health alerts within hours, reducing harm before dangerous new substances become more widespread.
Professor Malcolm McLeod said the recognition was a testament to the dedication of the early-career researchers behind the project. βTheir research has uncovered emerging drugs, revealed the risks they pose to Australians and enabled rapid public health responses that can ultimately save lives.β
Congratulations ππ§‘