12 August 2013
University of South Australia researcher Dr Peter Pudney has been named this year’s Unsung Hero of South Australian Science Communication.
Dr Pudney, a Senior Research Fellow in applied mathematics, won the award from National Science Week (SA) and Australian Science Communicators (SA) for exemplifying science communication.
Dr Pudney is well-known for his work with solar and renewable energy vehicles – most recently with the renewable energy vehicle nicknamed Trev (two-seater renewable energy vehicle).
In 2007, Trev was driven from Darwin to Adelaide in the demonstration class of the World Solar Challenge, using only $33 worth of electricity for the 3000 km trip.
In 2010, Trev was upgraded and driven 28,000 km around the world, in 80 days of driving, using only $400 worth of renewable electricity, as one of three entrants in the Zero Race for electric vehicles.
Currently Dr Pudney is working with Team Trev on the African Solar Taxi project, developing a small electric vehicle to carry pregnant women to hospital in rural Zimbabwe.
Trev has featured many times in state, national and international print and electronic media, while Dr Pudney has been an invited speaker at numerous conferences, profession society meetings, forums and events.
Dr Pudney says he is honoured to receive the award and hopes his work may encourage young people to follow a career in science.
In addition to sustainable transport, Dr Pudney’s 30-year research career has also encompassed in-cab train systems to help drivers stay on time and minimise energy use.
Contact for interview: Dr Peter Pudney office 8302 3457 mobile 0431 613 910
Media contact: Kelly Stone office 8302 0963 mobile 0417 861 832 email Kelly.stone@unisa.edu.au
