An Otago palaeogeneticist has been recognised with the Prime Minister’s Science Communication Prize for his efforts in addressing misconceptions surrounding the concept of "de-extinction," particularly in relation to New Zealand’s extinct giant moa bird.

Associate Professor Nic Rawlence, director of the University of Otago’s Ancient Ecology Lab, gained international attention last year when he openly challenged Colossal Biosciences’ ambitious plan to resurrect the moa through genetic engineering. The American company proposed creating a genetically engineered emu or similar ratted ratite to resemble the moa, a flightless bird that has been extinct for centuries. Assoc Prof Rawlence described the idea as a "pipe dream" and emphasised that extinction is irreversible, stating there is currently no scientific basis for true "de-extinction."

Following his public criticism, Rawlence became the target of a series of online attacks intended to undermine his credibility. Colossal Biosciences’ chief executive, Ben Lamm, denied any involvement in generating artificial intelligence-driven smear articles but expressed frustration with Rawlence’s statements. Lamm responded on social media by ridiculing Rawlence’s understanding of the moa, sarcastically warning of the absurdity if the birds were capable of flight.

Though initially dismissive of the online backlash, Rawlence later acknowledged that the sustained criticism had taken an emotional toll. Receiving the Prime Minister’s Science Communication Prize at a ceremony on Tuesday in Parliament, presented by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, proved a significant and validating moment for him. Rawlence described the recognition as “amazing and humbling,” reinforcing his commitment to his work.

The prize selection panel commended Rawlence for his wide-ranging contributions to science education and his effective communication across multiple media platforms. His proactive and reactive fact-checking of contentious scientific claims has reached a global audience, accumulating millions of views.

Rawlence plans to use the NZD 75,000 award to advance science communication initiatives. His projects include conducting a longitudinal study on public perceptions of genetic engineering and de-extinction, aiming to evaluate the impact of various communication strategies. Additionally, he intends to support university postgraduate students and early career researchers by funding their participation in the Science Media Centre’s science communication course. He also plans to collaborate with Dr Pascale Lubbe on a book exploring how science has reconstructed the prehistoric ecosystems of New Zealand.

The award underscores the growing importance of rigorous and transparent communication in contemporary scientific discourse, particularly on highly publicised and controversial topics such as genetic technologies and conservation efforts.