Labor commits to Manufacturing Network

The ALP has announced that a Labor Federal government will invest $100 million over four years in a Manufacturing Network to foster innovation in small and medium Australian manufacturing businesses.

Under the program, five new Centres will be established in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and Tasmania and Queensland’s QMI Solutions will be linked in with the network. A wide range of expert services will be offered to businesses, including:

• Benchmarking of business and manufacturing processes against best practice;
• Helping to find and adapt the latest research, technology and organisational knowledge to improve products and efficiency;
• Prototyping and testing facilities to turn ideas into products; and
• Helping to cut through red tape to access other government programs, including export development grants and market intelligence from Austrade.

It is expected that about 1,000 small and medium manufacturing enterprises a year will receive hands-on support from the Network. A further 2,000 firms will receive advice, attend workshops and participate in innovation networking activities. The Network’s benchmarking services will be provided free to small and medium sized manufacturing businesses.

The Network’s technical assistance programs will be provided on a co-investment basis with the business. The QMI Solutions model, for example, provides a 2:1 government/business investment.

All categories of manufacturing business will be eligible for assistance including food and beverage; textile, clothing and footwear; wood and paper products; motor vehicle parts; and electronics.

The new Network will be established by a new Commonwealth department bringing together responsibility for innovation, industry, science and research. However, the Network will be at arm's length from government, and will include a combination of expert staff and outsourced consultants.

The Network will work with existing organisations that promote innovation in business, including state-based organisations, Cooperative Research Centres, CSIRO facilities and intermediary services, such as InnovationXchange.

Under Labor, the Coalition Government's recently established Productivity Centres would be incorporated into the Network.

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Productivity Centres to open next month

Five Australian Industry Productivity Centres (AIPC) are expected to open in September following the announcement of partner organisations to deliver the AIPC services to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs.

The Productivity Centres were allocated funding of $351.8 million over ten years under the Industry Statement announced on 1 May this year.

There will be five productivity centres located in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide, and the partner organisations will ensure that AIPC services will be available to all metropolitan and regional areas.

The centres will target trade-exposed manufacturing and services firms with a turnover of $2 million or more. They will provide a suite of business improvement services including:

• a free Business Diagnostic Service that will help firms identify areas for improvement and, where appropriate, benchmark their operations and performance against national and international best practice;
• matching funding of up to $20,000 for Tailored Advisory Services to tackle specific issues identified by the diagnostic; and
• matching funding of up to $20,000 for Technology and Knowledge Solutions, which will help solve practical problems through technology and process improvements.

Funding will be offered to ten organisations to engage 45 business advisers in metropolitan and regional locations around Australia, including:

• Australian Chamber Alliance (National)
• Australian Industry Group (National)
• The Improve Group (Queensland)
• Coastal Business Centre (WA)
• SA Centre for Innovation (SA)
• Industry Capability Network (Victoria)
• North Link/NIETL (Victoria)
• Geelong Manufacturing Council (Victoria)
• University of Western Sydney (NSW)
• University of South Australia (SA)

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Report identifies benefits of R&D Tax Concession

A report prepared by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources has found that the R&D Tax Concession impacts positively on firms' R&D budgets and speeds up the rate of R&D activity.

The report, How R&D Assistance influences Company Behaviour, is based on a survey of R&D Tax Concession registrants. It found that “Overall, most of the firms surveyed reported changes in behaviour as a result of using the R&D Tax Concession. It affected 86% of firms during their R&D project and after the project 98% of firms reported long-term behavioural change.”

Other findings included:

• a better understanding of the benefits of R&D;
• a higher commitment to R&D;
• improved management of R&D;
• improved business strategy in the firm; and
• increased collaboration with universities.

The report is believed to be the first report in the world to investigate the behavioural impact on the firm of an R&D tax incentive using the OECD 'behavioural additionality' methodology. It can be viewed at http://www.industry.gov.au/RandDtaxbehaviour.

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Australia Fellowships awarded

This year’s round of Australia Fellowships, worth a total of $36 million, have been awarded through the National Health and Medical Research Council. The Fellowships have been awarded in the four broad research fields: The fight against cancer; Easing the global burden of infectious diseases; and Mind and body – moving forward on mental health.

Each Fellowship is valued at $4 million ($800,000 per year for 5 years).

The recipients are:

The fight against cancer:

• Professor Doug Hilton, from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, research how the body’s cells communicate with each other. His fellowship will assist him in research into the molecular basis for the onset and progression of cancer and other diseases.
• Professor David Vaux from La Trobe University, research in the field of apoptosis, or cell death.
• Professor John Hopper from the University of Melbourne, research in genetic epidemiology, investigating links between genes, the environment, and breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer.
• Professor Andreas Strasser from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, research identifying the processes by which anti-cancer therapy triggers apoptosis.

Easing the global burden of infectious diseases:

• Professor James C Paton from the University of Adelaide, research into new generation vaccines and therapeutic approaches for bacterial infections such as Pneumococcal, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Escherichia coli.
• Professor Alan Cowman from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, design of new treatments and vaccines for malaria.
• Professor Tony McMichael, from the Australian National University, research on the health risks of global climate change and environmental influences on infectious and parasitic diseases and autoimmune disease.

Mind and body – moving forward on mental health:

• Professor Sam Berkovic from the University of Melbourne, integration of high level clinical medicine, molecular genetics and cutting-edge neuro-imaging in the causes and treatment of epilepsy.
• Professor Ian Hickie from the Brain & Mind Research Institute at the University of Sydney, population-based research and development of mental health strategies on the importance of environmental factors such as infection, inflammation and alcohol and substance abuse exposure on the risk of developing non-psychotic mental disorders.

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Ministerial reshuffle in Victoria following Bracks’ resignation

Following the announcement of the new Cabinet by the Premier of Victoria, John Brumby, the Innovation portfolio is now held by Gavin Jennings, who also has responsibility for Environment and Climate Change. Mr Jennings was formerly Minister for Community Services and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs as well as Deputy Leader of the Government, Legislative Council.

The Innovation portfolio was held by Mr Brumby prior to the resignation of the former Premier, Steve Bracks, earlier this month.

Theo Theophanus retains the Industry and State Development and takes over the Information Technology portfolio from Tim Holding.

The new Health Minister is Daniel Andrews, formerly Parliamentary Secretary for Health, while the former Health Minister, Bronwyn Pike, has taken on the Education portfolio.

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Victoria appoints energy chief scientist

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International) of the University of Melbourne has been appointed to the new advisory position of Chief Scientist (Energy) with the Victorian Department of Primary Industries.

Professor Larkins, Professor of Chemistry at Melbourne University, currently chairs several committees including the National Synchrotron Scientific Advisory Committee and International Synchrotron Scientific Advisory Committee and is a member of the Victorian Knowledge Innovation Science and Engineering Council.

The Minister for Energy and Resource, Peter Batchelor, said the role of Chief Scientist was created to provide strategic and policy advice to his office and to the DPI which has responsibility for energy and resources.

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NSW to fund stem cell and cloning technology

Following the legalisation in New South Wales of therapeutic cloning of human embryos, the NSW Premier, Morris Iemma, has announced that a $500,000 grant will be available to the first scientist to produce stem cells from cloned human embryos.

In NSW, scientists will now be able to clone embryos, using a patient's own cells, to develop patient-specific stem-cell lines which would avoid rejection complications when transplanted

With laws lifted on the previously illegal practice, the State Government is looking to actively fund research with the aim of making NSW the world centre of stem cell and cloning technology.

Mr Iemma said that with the legislation being passed allowing therapeutic cloning, funding would be allocated from a special $11.5 million fund to develop it.

"Put simply, this funding will enable NSW scientists to undertake work we hope will result in the creation of the country's first stem-cell lines derived from somatic-cell nuclear transfer embryos. In fact, if successful it could well be a world first," he said.

Prince of Wales Hospital transplant unit head Professor Bernie Tuch said the hospital was developing stem-cell lines to produce insulin-producing cells to treat diabetes.

"We will be putting our hand up," Professor Tuch said. "People in NSW can now apply for funding to move from the concept of therapeutic cloning, to be able to attempt to move it forward."

Following the implementation in June of the of the Prohibition of Human Cloning for Research and the Regulation of Human Embryo Research Amendment Act 2006, the NHMRC has developed application forms for licences to use ART embryos and held information sessions in capital cities.

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New NSW biotech grants launched

The NSW Minister for State Development Ian Macdonald has launched the first annual round of the new BioBusiness Proof of Concept Grant program, established to help life science companies prove the business value of their discoveries.

Under the program, up to 10 grants of up to $100,000 each will be awarded each year for four years to support up to half the cost of projects by companies with a turnover of less than $30 million.

Applications for the first round of the program close on 31 October 2007. Further information is at (02) 9338 6622 or here

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Queensland Chief Scientist sets vision for 2025

A paper written by Queensland Chief Scientist, Professor Peter Andrews, has been released, examining ways in which Queensland can focus its investment in research and development (R&D) on opportunities that will benefit the economy, the environment and the community.

The paper, titled Queensland Science: Building a Smarter Future, was launched at at Queensland’s Science in Parliament 2007, an event held on August 8 with the theme Celebrating success in Queensland Science. It sets out a range of targets, to be achieved by 2025, to which science can contribute. These cover areas including building a knowledge economy; securing the best standards of health; ensuring environmental future; investment in R&D; increased skills in science, engineering and technology;and achieving a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation. The paper sets out a broad strategy for achieving each of these objectives. It is available at http://www.chiefscientist.qld.gov.au. Details of the Science in Parliament event are also at this site.

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2007/08 DuPont Innovation Awards - Enter Now

The 2007/08 DuPont Australia & New Zealand Innovation Awards are now open for entry.

Launched in 2004, the biennial awards program is an independently judged competition that recognizes and rewards the introduction of a new and innovative technology, application, product or service.

The Awards are free to enter, and are open to individuals, companies or tertiary students.

The program is an official event of the National Innovation Festival, with each of the seven categories supported by leaders in the fields of science, industry and environmental sustainability.

Winners of these prestigious awards will be announced at the DuPont Innovation Awards presentation in Sydney in May 2008 and gain opportunities to further develop designs and ideas through access to industry and government networks.

2007/08 AWARD CATEGORIES
1. Building Innovation - sponsored by Fletcher Building Limited
2. Medical & Healthcare - sponsored by Invetech
3. Sustainable Energy - sponsored by BHP Billiton
4. Sustainable Services - sponsored by Worley Parsons
5. Agriculture & Food Production - sponsored by Cargill Australia Limited
6. Performance Materials - sponsored by Plantic
7. Tertiary Student Award - sponsored by ABB

KEY DATES
May 1, 2007 - Call for Entry Opens
November 30, 2007 - Call for Entry Closes
March 2008 - Finalists Announced
May 2008 - Award Presentation in Sydney

Find out more and download an entry form here.  

Or contact:

DuPont Innovation Awards, c/- Two de Force, Suite 5 / 50 Reservoir St, Surry Hills NSW 2010

Awards Hotline - Tel: +61 2 9923 6144
Email - innovation@aus.dupont.com  

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Awards and grants for research excellence - The Australian Academy of Science

The Academy is calling for nominations for:

• medals and prizes for early career and career researchers;
Closing date – 30 August

• research support for the conservation of endangered vertebrate species;
• support for overseas and local travel
Closing date – 30 September

The Academy is also calling for expressions of intent for:

• support for research conferences
Closing date – 30 September

Further information:

www.science.org.au/awards/research.htm  
www.science.org.au/awards/index.htm  

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Call for Preliminary Research Proposals from the CRDC

Australian Cotton Industry Research, Development & Extension

Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC) invests in a wide range of research, development and extension projects aimed at enhancing the environmental, economic and social performance of the
Australian cotton industry.

Preliminary research proposals (PRPs) are now being accepted for R&D support from CRDC in 2008/09, for up to 3 years duration.

Competition for funds is expected to be intense as the Corporation currently has a significant portfolio of existing R&D commitments.

Guidelines
Projects may relate to any field of cotton-related research, including but not limited to the Corporations’ six strategic R&D Programs:
People & Knowledge, Integrated Natural Resource Management, Crop Protection, Farming Systems, Breeding & Biotechnology, Value Chain

Postgraduate Scholarships

Applications are now being accepted for  Postgraduate Scholarships ($32,000 pa for 3 years).

These scholarships are open to anyone who is an Australian resident, studying at an Australian university and interested in working in the Australian cotton industry to pursue postgraduate studies relating to the cotton industry or its related community activities. Studies may align with the academic year (starting 1 January 2008) or 1 July 2008.

Applications close September 1, 2007

Applicants are advised to seek CRDC and industry input before compiling a proposal. A list of contacts for each R&D program can be found on the CRDC website - www.crdc.com.au  

Applicants should consult the Researchers’ Handbook
which along with the PRP form and Scholarship Application
form which can be found on the CRDC website.

Cotton Research & Development Corporation
2 Lloyd Street, Narrabri NSW 2390
Tel: 02 6792 4088 Fax: 02-6792 4400
Website: www.crdc.com.au  
Email: research@crdc.com.au  

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Position Vacant: Professor, Mining Engineering

- The iconic Western Australian School of Mines 
- Influential role in Australia’s booming resources industry

This position, which is a continuing appointment, presents a great opportunity for an academic at Associate Professor or Professor level to join a globally recognised team at the heart of Australia’s mining research and teaching community. The historic WA School of Mines (WASM) is part of the fast growing and renowned Curtin University of Technology and has campuses in Perth and Kalgoorlie, which is just a 45-minute flight from Perth.

WASM has an internationally strong presence in the field of Rock Mechanics and seek to appoint someone with complimentary skills. Major areas of research could include Mine Planning, Mine Regulation, Mining Equipment, Mine Safety, Transport Systems, and Mine Surveying, and an established reputation in any of these, or a closely related discipline, will ensure your serious consideration.

The position is based in Kalgoorlie, although a presence can be maintained on the Perth campus. Kalgoorlie is a well-serviced and established regional city with a rich history, offering excellent facilities and infrastructure for families and education. It is an important business and service centre for a major established mining industry, especially nickel and gold. Many of the mining companies in the region have a close and collaborative relationship with WASM.

The school will consider applicants from any part of the globe who can demonstrate a track record of leadership, excellent communication skills, and a strong interest in both research and teaching. Administration requirements will be kept to a minimum. An attractive relocation package will ensure a smooth transition to the position.

For potential applicants wishing to discuss the position informally and confidentially, or to request an application pack, please contact Richard Hazlewood at exec.search pty ltd. Just send an e-mail to Richard@exec-search.com.au  or call +61 8 9481 7033 Australian WST. Written communications can be sent to P O Box 787, West Perth, WA 6872, Australia.

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Position Vacant: Research Director

- Representing AMIRA in WA 
- Leadership and Relationship Management 
- Fostering a sustainable minerals industry through global research partnerships.

AMIRA International, with offices in Australia, South Africa, South America and North America is a non-profit association dedicated to brokering collaborative research projects on behalf of its 66 members, leading companies in the global mineral resources industry. By taking a partnership approach to research and development, members enhance their competitive position through access to leading edge technology.

AMIRA International is funded by its members, and has a 48-year history of delivering successful research projects. The current research portfolio totals more than $50 Million in industry funding.

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the Research Director will join a worldwide team to develop relationships with member companies and a global network of research providers, and will manage a portfolio of AMIRA’s strategic relationships in WA and overseas.

This is a significant opportunity play a key role in an organisation making a global difference to an industry at the heart of the world’s economic future. The Research Director will provide strong leadership in a challenging business environment.

The successful applicant will demonstrate the ability to market AMIRA’s capabilities and build highly effective collaborative relationships with key stakeholders.

The successful applicant may come from a range of industry sectors and professional backgrounds. The person we are seeking will have demonstrated a distinguished track record in establishing and nurturing a network among key players in a key industry sector.

The capacity to grasp the technical aspects of research opportunities is required and exposure to research activities is desirable.

The position will require frequent short-duration travel within Australia, and some overseas travel, and a remuneration package will be negotiated to reflect the experience and achievements of the successful applicant.

Register your interest by sending a resume via e-mail (preferred) to richard@exec-search.com.au, fax on 08 9481 7040 or mail to exec.search pty ltd at P O Box 787, West Perth, WA 6872. Telephone queries, in strict confidence, can be directed to Richard Hazlewood on 08 9481 7033.

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Specialist Certificate in Clinical Research (Biomedical Research Management)

Thinking of Further Education?

Enrol now for the September 2007 intake in Biomedical Research Management (But hurry as places are restricted to 20 places)

With the longer term goal of creating clinical outcomes for projects in human and animal health, including medical devices and dentistry, this course has been designed for professionals who are involved with running biomedical research projects, those seeking a more senior project management role on such projects and research managers who would like to transfer their project management skills to biomedical projects. This may include staff working in CCRE’s, research organisations, universities, start-up companies, as well as research fellows and postgraduate students.

This course covers all the important areas that effective biomedical research managers need to be conversant with, and make decisions about, to develop sound biomedical research project plans and budgets. The focus is then on developing skills for the proactive management and communication projects where uncertainty is the norm. Finally, assessment is built around demonstrating the ability to apply skills learned to a real work based project.

Part 1: September 17, 18, 20 & 21 2007
Part 2: October 29, 30, 31 & November 1 2007

NEED TO KNOW MORE? Check out more information at;

http://www.soe.unimelb.edu.au/biomedicalresearchmanagement  

Express your interest in this course or related courses by contacting;

Elise Strande on (03) 9810 3136 or email e.strande@soe.unimelb.edu.au  

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