R&D Info Headlines, 9 October 2007 |
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News Alerts
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New Innovation Board takes over from IR&D Board and Venture Capital Registration Board
A new Innovation Australia Board has been formed from the merger of the IR&D Board and Venture Capital Registration Board. Legislation to establish Innovation Australia passed Federal Parliament on 20 September 2007.
Innovation Australia will oversee the delivery of Government's business innovation and venture capital programs, including the R&D Tax Concession, Commercial Ready, COMET, the Innovation Investment Funds and Early Stage Venture Capital Limited Partnerships.
The Innovation Australia Board is chaired by Mr David Miles AM with Mr Brian Watson as the deputy chair. Other members of the Board are Mr Adrian Brien AM, Ms Margaret Calvert, Mr Roger Harley, The Hon Bill Hassell AM, Mr Leslie Hosking, Dr John Keniry AM, Ms Elizabeth Lewis-Gray, Dr Deborah Rathjen, Dr Peter Riddles, Mr Peter Thomas, Mr Kenneth Windle, Dr Jonathan Spring and Mr Bill Peel.
The Australian Industry Minister, Ian Macfarlane, said the Board will take on a special ambassadorial role to promote the role of innovation in driving Australia's competitiveness, especially amongst young people and small business.
The Innovation Ambassador role of Board members will focus on three key areas:
- Innovation awareness activities for young entrepreneurs and small businesses;
- Sponsorship of events promoting innovation and entrepreneurial achievement; and
- Innovation research and policy advice to enhance the design and integration of the Government's innovation programs.
Funding of $5 million has been allocated to the Board to increase awareness of the Government's innovation and venture capital programs.
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CSIRO Board appointments
Professor Suzanne Cory, Director of the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, has been appointed as the inaugural Deputy Chairman of the CSIRO Board.
Announcing the appointment, Minister for Education, Science and Training, Julie Bishop, said Professor Cory had made a significant contribution to CSIRO Board deliberations as a member for the past five years.
Professor Cory will assist with the governance of CSIRO, in recognition of the heavy responsibilities and workload of the Chairman of the Board, Dr John Stocker.
Dr Douglas Rathbone, Managing Director and Chief Executive of Nufarm Ltd, has also been appointed as a member of the Board.
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Appointments to ANSTO Board
Two new appointments have been made to the Board of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO).
They are:
- Professor Andrew Scott, Director of the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research at the Melbourne Centre for Clinical Sciences and a Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Melbourne; and
- Mr Edward Pretty, senior consultant with Macquarie Bank and currently the Chairman of Fujitsu Australia Limited and RP Data Limited, and a Director on the Advisory Board of Pratt Holdings.
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New appointment to AIMS Council
Dr Brian Fisher has been appointed as a member of the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) Council.
Dr Fisher is Vice President and Director of CRA International’s Economic and Policy Analysis practice in Canberra. Previously he was Executive Director of the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARE) for 18 years.
The Minister for Education, Science and Training, Julie Bishop,said that Dr Fisher’s extensive experience in public policy analysis, resource management and climate change would provide a valuable perspective on issues of strategic importance to the Council.
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Rudd promises $15 million for cancer treatment clinical trials
The Leader of the Opposition, Kevin Rudd, has announced that a Labor Government will invest an extra $15 million over the next three years in independent clinical trials of drugs and research into cancer treatment.
The funding will double the amount of Commonwealth funding available annually and will be administered by Cancer Australia to support work being carried out by Australia’s national co-operative clinical trials groups.
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Labor promises manufacturing centre for northern Adelaide
A Labor Government will commit up to $20 million to establish a Manufacturing Centre in northern Adelaide’s Mawson Lakes to help South Australian manufacturers become more productive and competitive.
South Australia’s Manufacturing Centre will form part of Labor’s Manufacturing Network, to be created with funding of up to $100 million.
The Adelaide Centre will provide support to manufacturers, such as:
- benchmarking of business processes against best practice and support to manage small business growth;
- help with finding and implementing the latest technology to make products more efficiently;
- access to research and to prototyping and testing facilities; and
- assistance to access other government programs.
According to the ALP statement, a Labor Government will work with the South Australian Government, local businesses and innovation services to ensure that the new Centre in Mawson Lakes adds value.
”For example, there may be a need for prototyping infrastructure to enable small and medium electronics companies – who can’t afford to capital for their own specialist labs – to turn their great Australian ideas into world leading products.”
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CSIRO Materials Science and Engineering created from Division amalgamation
A new CSIRO Division, CSIRO Materials Science and Engineering (CMSE), has been formed from the amalgamation of Melbourne-based Manufacturing and Materials Technology and Sydney-based Industrial Physics.
CMSE is the fourth largest CSIRO Division with 310 research staff, and is headed by Dr Calum Drummond, former chief of Industrial Physics.
Dr Drummond said the Division will provide a coordinated approach to materials design, creation, characterisation and application, particularly for the manufacturing industry.
Amongst major projects undertaken by the previous Divisions or still in progress are:
- CSIRO’s lightweight concrete, HySSIL, to create building panels that are half the weight of conventional material but just as strong. Under a joint venture between CSIRO spin-off company HySSIL Pty Ltd and Westkon, a pilot plant is being constructed in Sunshine, Victoria, to complete large-scale process development and supply panels to projects earmarked to use HySSIL.
- CSIRO’s magnesium casting technology, T-Mag, which is also about to go full-scale under a joint venture with spin-off T-Mag Pty Ltd and three Adelaide-based companies. T-Mag is an energy- and metal-efficient process producing strong, lightweight castings without the flow lines or internal porosity defects typical of existing technology.
- In a five-year partnership with Electrolux, CSIRO designed the direct drive, switched reluctance motor and the power and control electronics for the Westinghouse SensorWash washing machine.
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New geothermal energy research centre for UQ
A new research centre will be established at the University of Queensland to investigate the potential of geothermal energy as a source of renewable power.
The Queensland Government has announced it will provide $15 million over five years to the new Queensland Geothermal Energy Centre of Excellence, while the University of Queensland will provide in-kind contributions valued at $3.28 million over five years and a further $2.05 million will be raised from external sponsors.
The centre will be the biggest of its type in the nation and the UQ will work with institutions in the USA – where Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) will be a partner – and Iceland, as well as Australian collaborators.
The centre will draw together the expertise of UQ researchers including Professor Hal Gurgenci (School of Engineering); Professor Victor Rudolph (School of Engineering); Professor Max Lu (Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology); and Professor Tapan Saha (School of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering). Back to Headlines>>
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National Climate Change Research Strategy for Primary Industries to be established
A new national research strategy is to be established to help Australia's primary industries to be better placed to cope with climate change.
According to the head of the National Climate Change Research Strategy for Primary Industries Joint Task Force, Dr Michael Robinson, the strategy will help agricultural industries reduce the risks and maximise opportunities presented by climate change during the next 30 years.
The strategy will also present a guide for primary industries to make the most of limited research funding.
In order to address adaptation to climate change the Strategy will be formulated for short (5 years), medium (10 years) and long term (20+ years) timeframes. It will also account for regional and industry interests, while taking a global view of opportunities and risks. The Strategy will also o recognise the development and implementation of the national emissions trading scheme and the information needs of industries as they seek to capitalise on the opportunities and manage associated costs.
The strategy will:
- Map existing research, development and extension activities
- Identify key information gaps.
- Identify potential areas for collaboration.
- Identify successful communication and adoption strategies.
The final research strategy and recommendations are due to be completed in March 2008.
Comment is being sought from stakeholders on issues such as:
- Adaptation to climate change.
- Greenhouse gas mitigation.
- Emissions accounting and trading.
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Australian Microscopy & Microanalysis Research Facility launched
The $41 million Australian Microscopy & Microanalysis Research Facility (AMMRF) has been launched at the University of Sydney. It will be Australia's peak research facility for the characterisation of materials using microscopy and microanalysis techniques, employing electron and ion beams, scanned probes, X-rays, and light and laser optics.
Research projects that will use the facility, include a study at the University of Western Australia into muscle diseases in newborn babies; a University of Adelaide project to test new drugs to treat bone cancer; a project at the University of New South Wales to develop hard coatings for bearing surfaces, and a University of Sydney study to explore the origins of remarkable properties of a new advanced steels.
The facility was funded with a $19.2 million National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) grant, $11 million from the state governments and around $9 million from the participating universities.
The AMMRF has other nodes at the University of Queensland, the University of New South Wales, the University of Western Australia, Australian National University, Flinders University, the University of Adelaide, and the University of South Australia.
It also has formalised links to a number of specialist laboratories in Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales and more such linkages are planned.
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Announcements
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CIEAM researchers receive top honours
The CRC for Integrated Engineering Asset Management is very pleased to offer its congratulations to two of the Centre’s leading researchers, who were recognised this year at state and national levels.
Dr Bruce Hinton, from CIEAM research participant, the Defence Science and Technology Organisation, was awarded the 2007 Minister's Award for Achievement in Defence Science at the Centenary of Defence Science dinner in Melbourne recently. Dr Hinton plays a pivotal role in CIEAM's research and development activities, as an Industry Advisor to the Centre’s Advanced Sensors research programme.
The award recognises Dr Hinton's long and distinguished career as an expert in aircraft corrosion, and the many millions of dollars his innovative research has saved the Australian Defence Force in the ongoing maintenance, repair and safety of the Defence aircraft.
QUT's Associate Professor Lin Ma also received recent accolades at the Queensland 2007 Smart Women — Smart State awards. Assoc Prof Ma was awarded First Prize in the "Women in Community/Public Sector" category for her work in developing state of the art models and processes that help in planning pro-active maintenance activities for major assets, significantly reducing the need for costly repairs and lost productivity.
Assoc Prof Ma leads CIEAM's Models and Decision Systems research programme.
CIEAM is very proud to be associated with such leading edge researchers, and the contributions they make to the Centre, it’s participants, and to the community at large.
For more information about CIEAM please see website here.
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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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Position Vacant: Project Officer
• Plant Biosecurity
• Organise & Coordinate
• Analyse, Synthesise & Present
Our client, a national coordinating body, identifies and commissions projects and coordinates policy development to protect Australia’s plant industries and related resources from risks posed by organisms through the implementation of exclusion, eradication and control measures.
Working with the company’s Program Managers, you will be responsible for providing administrative, technical and analytical support for specific programs and related projects. You will be flexible and adaptable and have the ability to multitask across a range of projects.
THE ROLE
• Research and collate information on key pest threats and assist with the development and preparation of Farm Biosecurity Plans
• Prepare and present information which promotes and extends the awareness of plant biosecurity
• Assist with the preparation of reports on program/project activities and the presentation of such information to company stakeholders
• Act as the company’s representative for specific meetings associated with program/project management
THE REQUIREMENTS
• General knowledge of Australian plant primary production systems – exposure to or interaction with both industry and government highly regarded
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with a demonstrated ability to prepare and present reports and recommendations in a clear, concise and logical manner
• Ability to work independently and also operate as a positive and supportive team member
• Relevant tertiary qualifications in biology, agricultural/rural science or natural resources
This exciting opportunity is well suited to either a recent graduate or experienced individual who has drive and enthusiasm, is receptive to new ideas, is willing to learn and displays flexibility to changes in work schedules and demands.
Contact Stephen Penhall in confidence or fax, mail or email your application, quoting
Reference No PP08S02 to:
Stelle International Pty Ltd
PO Box 3871 Manuka ACT 2603
Telephone: (02) 6299 9221 / Facsimile: (02) 6299 9224
Email: Stephen@stelleinternational.com.au
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Position Vacant: Agricultural Economist
• Plant Industries
• Newly Created Position
• Challenging & Rewarding Opportunity
Through its management of priority programs and projects, our client is working to enhance the capacity for Australian agriculture to respond to both exotic and endemic plant pests and diseases
Working with the company’s Program Managers, you will be responsible for providing administrative, technical and analytical support for specific programs and related projects. You will be challenged by the need to gain a rapid understanding of Australia’s various plant industries and how both state and federal governments interact with industry to form a national framework to make plant industries more efficient, competitive and sustainable.
THE ROLE
• Collect data and analyse costs and returns associated with the management of, and surveillance for, plant pests and assist with the development of policy documents relating to plant health
• Assess factors associated with Plant Biosecurity that affect farm costs and market return
• Prepare Cost/Benefit Analyses and economic risk assessments for plant biosecurity and plant pest risk mitigation strategies
• Assist with the calculation of Owner Reimbursement Costs associated with plant pest incursions for primary producers
THE REQUIREMENTS
• Experience in agricultural economics research with the ability to make timely and sound decisions based on the collation and assessment of information
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with a demonstrated ability to prepare and present reports and recommendations in a clear, concise and logical manner
• Flexible and adaptable with the ability to build effective working relationships
• Formal qualifications in agricultural or natural resource economics - exposure to or interaction with both industry and government highly regarded
Our client will consider recent graduates or experienced individuals for this newly created opportunity which requires exceptional analytical skills and a keen willingness to learn.
Contact Stephen Penhall in confidence or fax, mail or email your application, quoting
Reference No PP08N03 to:
Stelle International Pty Ltd
PO Box 3871 Manuka ACT 2603
Telephone: (02) 6299 9221 / Facsimile: (02) 6299 9224
Email: Stephen@stelleinternational.com.au
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Position Vacant: Manager - Nutrition/Bioscience
• Key Management Appointment
• Flexible & Friendly Environment
• Adaptive & High Performing Culture
• Southbank, Melbourne Location
Dairy Australia Ltd is the industry’s service provider whose vision is to deliver world’s best service to achieve a growing, internationally competitive, innovative and sustainable dairy industry. It will achieve this by developing and driving industry services and innovation through investing in R&D, information, issues management, national marketing and international trade development for the benefit of its company members.
The successful applicant will work with the Value Chain Innovation business group which is responsible for leading innovation to enhance the business performance activities along the value chain. This covers a range of initiatives linked to the manufacturing sector, including scientific research to assist the industry to meet its environmental and community responsibilities in the areas of resource management and human nutrition. More specifically, you will participate in the identification and development of frontier technology to create market opportunities and, the identification of key health and nutrition issues that will influence the consumption of dairy products.
THE ROLE
• Develop a forward looking view of what nutrition issues might positively provide opportunities for the dairy industry
• Strategically manage the company’s investment in bioscience research related to the post-farmgate sector
• Contribute to the formulation of policy, develop industry positions on nutrition issues, manage nutrition research investment and represent these from a dairy industry and Dairy Australia perspective
• Develop and maintain sustainable relationships with key influencers, scientists/researchers and policy makers globally
THE REQUIREMENTS
• Experience in the biotechnology sector with a good understanding of research design, methodology and management – demonstrated ability to plan and progress programs/projects to agreed deadlines
• Ability to clearly and succinctly articulate new ideas and concepts in a variety of communication settings and styles
• Strong customer focus, commercial awareness and able to adopt a strategic approach to issue identification and resolution
• Relevant tertiary qualifications with postgraduate credentials well regarded
The candidate of choice will be flexible and adaptable with the ability to build constructive and effective relationships across a broad range of stakeholders.
Contact Stephen Penhall in confidence or fax, mail or email your application, quoting Reference No ND08S08 to:
Stelle International Pty Ltd
PO Box 3871 Manuka ACT 2603
Telephone: (02) 6299 9221 / Facsimile: (02) 6299 9224
Email: Stephen@stelleinternational.com.au
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Further Education
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Graduate Diploma in Drug Evaluation & Pharmaceutical Sciences: 2008
University of Melbourne, Australia
Today’s potent drugs, combined with the complex issues of their production and use has created a growing need for evaluation of their safety and efficacy.
For such evaluation, wide ranging expertise is required in the areas of Chemistry, Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Clinical Medicine, Epidemiology and Legal and Ethical Considerations.
This diploma course gives a systematic overview of these areas and how they affect the very practical issues of drug evaluation and is aimed at Pharmacists, Research Nurses, Scientists, Medical Practitioners and others involved in regulatory affairs.
For more information please contact Mrs Nicola Cash Ph: +61 3 9496 3420, Fax: +61 3 9459 3510 or Email: njcash@unimelb.edu.au
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Applied Analysis of Clinical Trials
This course focuses on the major biostatistical techniques used in Clinical Research, with an emphasis on clinical trials. Real data sets will be analysed in a workshop environment, so that both the challenges and the outcomes are experienced. The use of multiple presenters will enable various viewpoints of analytic problems to be explored and discussed.
At the end of this subject, Clinicians should be able to:
• Understand the major statistical methods used in analysing data from clinical trials
• Perform analysis on such data within limitations, using an appropriate statistical package.
• Understand the limitations and assumptions of such analyses
• Be familiar with the statistical terms used in the literature
• Interpret and explain to others in clear language the relevant information from such analyses
• Understand the advantages and weaknesses of repeated measures, crossover designs, factorial and blocked designs from a statistical perspective.
This subject is one half of the Specialist Certificate in Clinical Research (Informatics & Analysis). To lean more about this award, visit our website www.soe.unimelb.edu.au/informatics
Dates: November 26, 27, 29 & 30 2007
Cost: $2,000 per person
For further details contact Elise Strande on (03) 9810 3136 or email e.strande@soe.unimelb.edu.au
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