The award is named in recognition of Professor Adrian Lee, who brought international renown to the School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences at UNSW during his time in the School. Professor Lee commenced work in the School in 1968, became the Professor of Medical Microbiology in 1990, and left the School to become UNSW Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education) in 2000. Typically, four scholarships worth A$5,000 each are awarded every year. Students may use the award to meet travel costs and living expenses associated with overseas collaborative projects.