The award, given to Dr Ainley Newson, recognises the achievements of a young Australian in Britain in any field of endeavour - business, sport, arts and culture, and the professions.

Dr Newson’s research focuses on the ethical aspects of clinical genetics, reproductive decision-making, and the emerging technology of ‘synthetic biology’, which aims to design artificial biological components.

Philip Aiken, Chairman of the Australia Day Foundation, said: “Ainsley has a clear idea of where she is heading and her desire to continue with her research and pass on her valued knowledge to others is why the Australia Day Foundation considers her a worthy recipient of this award.”

Dr Newson, Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Ethics in the Centre for Ethics in Medicine, commenting on her award, said: "I was surprised and thrilled to receive this award from the Australia Day Foundation. From looking at the list of past winners (which has included soccer star Harry Kewell), I'm in esteemed company.

“This award is a great way to highlight the amazing achievements of young Australians living and working in the UK. I’m really pleased to see the Foundation rewarding all of our hard work-from sporting achievements, to hospitality to academic research."

Dr Newson earned a PhD in Medical Ethics from the University of Melbourne before she moved to the UK in 2003.  She then completed a three-year Research Fellowship in Ethics and Genetics at Imperial College London.  In 2007 Bristol University awarded her a “Rising Star” prize for teaching.

Young Australian Achiever of the Year in the UK has been awarded annually since 2005.  Previous recipients are Harry Kewell, Shane Osborn, Joe Roff, Chloe Chick and Matt Wilkins.