Winner of the 2025 Hugh Martin Weir Prize
2025 winner Katrina Ilze Pfeiler and Glen Weir
The University Library and Weir family are pleased to announce that Karina Ilze Pfeiler has been awarded the听2025 Hugh Martin Weir Prize.
Karina is a PhD candidate at the University of Adelaide, focusing on the forensic identification of historical human remains using advanced genomic and isotopic techniques.
As part of her PhD, Karina is working closely with the Unrecovered War Casualties - Army (UWC-A) unit to analyse a set of remains believed to be those of an Australian soldier killed during World War II in Greece. Her project combines strontium isotope testing, radiocarbon dating, and ancient DNA analysis to help confirm the individual鈥檚 origin and identity. This work not only aims to give a fallen soldier a name and a proper burial, but also contributes to the development of innovative forensic methods in Australia.
The funding from the Hugh Martin Weir Prize will support essential laboratory testing and help Karina strengthen her collaboration with the UWC-A. It also represents an important step in her broader research goal: applying cutting-edge forensic methods to help solve long-standing historical mysteries.
The Hugh Martin Weir Prize was established to encourage study and research, including use of the Barr Smith Library听collections, into any aspect of Australia's involvement in war, or the treatment of prisoners of war in any conflict, including the impact on those persons involved, their families, and/or their communities.
Congratulations, Karina!
