R&D INFO, March 27, 2003

SUMMARY
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NEWS ALERTS

1. STI MAPPING PROJECT UNDER WAY
2. SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES TO CONTRIBUTE TO NATIONAL RESEARCH PRIORITIES
3. NSW TO GET SCIENCE AND MEDICAL RESEARCH MINISTER
4. CSIRO TO SET UP ICT RESEARCH CENTRE
5. INNOVATION AWARD

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

6. CHIEF OF MINERALS, CSIRO
7. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER - Cooperative Research Centre for Antarctic Climate & Ecosystems
8. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER - Garvan Business Development Unit
9. CHIEF EXECUTIVE
10. CENTRE MANAGER - Australian Maritime Hydrodynamics Research Centre

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CALL FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

11. RESEARCH INTO OVERWEIGHT/OBESITY AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE (CVD)

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CONFERENCES

12. NOTICE OF ANNUAL SYMPOSIUM - Australian Academy of Science
13. 5th INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS ON INDUSTRIAL AND APPLIED MATHEMATICS
14. DISCOVERY SCIENCE & BIOTECHNOLOGY, 2003

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BUSINESS SERVICES

15. ERNST & YOUNG R&D SERVICES
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NEWS ALERTS


1. STI MAPPING PROJECT UNDER WAY

A Taskforce within the Department of Education, Science and Technology, headed by Dr Judy West who is on secondment from CSIRO, is preparing the draft report for the Federal Government's exercise to map Australia's science and innovation activities across the public and private sectors.

The taskforce is drawing information together in nine key areas: funding and expenditure; infrastructure; innovation skills; enabling and emerging S&T; commercialisation, utilisation and intellectual property; business innovation; linkages, including national and international linkages; clusters; regional science, technology and innovation; and awareness, accessibility and dissemination of information. The draft report will be provided in early June to the Expert Reference Group which is overseeing the project, under the chairmanship of the Chief Scientist, Dr Robin Batterham. The final report is to be completed by the end of the year.

In an interview published in this month's R&D Review, Dr Batterham, has indicated that the outcomes of the study will feed into consideration of possible changes to Australia's contestable research funding system.

2. SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES TO CONTRIBUTE TO NATIONAL RESEARCH PRIORITIES

A conference will be held in Canberra tomorrow (March 28) which will provide the opportunity for representatives of the Academy of the Social Sciences and the Academy of the Humanities to have input into ways of expanding the four national research priorities so that they better reflect the research perspectives and strengths of the humanities and social sciences. The outcomes from this conference will be presented to a national forum of the wider research community to be held in Canberra on April 16.

3. NSW TO GET SCIENCE AND MEDICAL RESEARCH MINISTER

The re-elected NSW Carr government will appoint a Minister for Science and Medical Research with responsibility for promoting investment in biotechnology and medical research in NSW. Mr Carr has yet to announce his new Cabinet and ministry.

4. CSIRO TO SET UP ICT RESEARCH CENTRE

CSIRO is to establish an ICT Research Centre which will be responsible for the implementation of CSIRO's ICT research strategy. The Centre will unify the information and communications technology research efforts of the Divisions of Mathematics & Information Sciences and Telecommunications and Industrial Physics. It will report to a dedicated ICT Centre Board.

5. INNOVATION AWARD

The inaugural $100,000 Peter Doherty Prize.for Innovation has been won by new technology called WeldPrint, developed by Sydney firm WTi (Welding Technology Innovations Pty Ltd) and the University of Sydney. The technology uses mathematics and chaos theory to analyse the quality and detect flaws in arc and spot welds in motor vehicles and other metal products.
The Peter Doherty Prize, announced at the Commercialisation Forum and Fair of Ideas, consists of $40,000 in cash and $60,000 in kind. Sponsors of the prize are PricewaterhouseCoopers, the Australian Institute for Commercialisation Ltd., the ResMed Foundation and Knowledge Commercialisation Australasia.

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

6. CHIEF OF MINERALS, CSIRO

The Commonwealth Scientific & Industrial Research Organisation is one of the world's largest and most successful R&D institutions. CSIRO is committed to complementing its world class science capabilities with a successful large scale external focus and commercial ability. The position of Chief is the key line leadership role in CSIRO's structure.

Chief of Minerals
Substantial Package
Melbourne

The leadership of the Minerals Division is vacant due to an internal promotion. The Division is a world leading provider of R&D to the global mineral processing and metal production sector. We are seeking a visionary leader to build on the division's recent strong growth.

The Role

* Reporting to the Group Executive, Sustainable Minerals and Energy, responsible for leadership of a team of 270+ and a budget c. A$42 million, and for the effective management and investment in his/her Division and its resources.

* Stimulate and champion new areas of science and technology in response to research opportunities and stakeholder priorities, by building IP, and delivering successful research outcomes.

* Build strategic and collaborative relationships externally and internally, meeting CSIRO and national priorities for growth and excellence in science and technology.

The Qualifications

* A national and international research leader/motivator in a relevant field.

* Successful track record in leading and delivering commercially useful innovations with strong influencing and relationship building skills particularly at top levels. A strategic visionary who is business savvy and who will want to play a broad role in CSIRO's success.

* Have high energy, be growth, results and people oriented, with a collaborative style and seasoned management skills. One who can cross easily from big picture thinking to delivering program milestones.

For further information and contact details visit http://www.csiro.au/careers or telephone John Baistow on (02) 9490 8253.

7. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER - Cooperative Research Centre for Antarctic Climate & Ecosystems

* Leading a globally renowned research institution
* High profile role in Australia and internationally
* Hobart-based

The Cooperative Research Centre for Antarctic Climate & Ecosystems (ACE CRC) is being established to build upon the outstanding scientific achievements of the current CRC for Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. The CEO will be expected to lead a highly motivated research team to achieve further substantial advances in environmental and polar science. The role will involve building and managing collaborative relationships between major funding partners You will ensure that scientific outputs are turned into deliverables relevant to stakeholders.

We are looking for a proven leader, who is able to develop a strong culture and manage this internationally renowned group of scientists. You will need to be able to forge a genuine alliance between established groups of scientists in different disciplines.

You will also need to be a strategic thinker with good analytical skills. Outstanding verbal and written communication skills are essential. Senior management experience is also necessary. A passion for the environment, interdisciplinary scientific research and the Antarctic is essential.

Information on ACE CRC is available at: http://www.antcrc.utas.edu.au/acecrc
and a copy of the position description is available at http://www.antcrc.utas.edu.au/acecrc/jobs/ceopd.pdf.

For further information on this position please contact: Dr Katherine Woodthorpe, ACE Chairman via katherine@people-innovation.biz or on (+61) 0408 976 724.

To apply please send a resume and covering letter, addressing the selection criteria and explaining why you wish to become the CEO of this Centre, addressed to the ACE Chairman C/-:
email: Tania.Braslin@utas.edu.au;
mail: Director Human Resources, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 46, Hobart, Tasmania 7001 Australia
Applications close Monday 28 April 2003.

 

8. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER - Garvan Business Development Unit

An exciting biotechnology career opportunity is currently available in the Garvan Business Development Unit. The position has strategic, operational and clerical components working closely with and reporting to the Director of Business Development.

The Garvan is the largest medical research institute in NSW and an Australian leader and innovator in biomedical commercialisation. The role of the Garvan Business Development Unit is to protect and commercialise the outputs of Garvan research through a range of
collaborative, licensing and partnership agreements with the international pharmaceutical, biotechnology and venture capital industries and includes new company formation, financing and the licensing of genes and research tools. The office also manages strategic biotechnology partnerships with other research, private sector and government organizations and has lead the formation of Bio-Link, a new $3m business alliance in NSW.

The Principal Responsibilities of the position are:

* Managing the Garvan patent portfolio, the material transfer agreement system, conducting patent, literature and electronic media searches, and coordinating related intelligence gathering and report writing activities. This will include maintaining a complete database of
patent activity and prosecuting appropriate patent filings in association with the Director of Business Development and the Institute's patent attorneys.

* Communication and correspondence with internal customers (Garvan staff), external service providers and commercial partners in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and finance industries including participation in commercial negotiations and the management of
agreement and diligence materials.

Applicants should have a minimum of an Honours and preferably an advanced degree in a relevant scientific, medical, business or legal field and at least three years of appropriate work experience.
Applicant competencies should include:

* Project management skills including problem solving and administrative
ability;

* Well-developed computer skills including database, presentation,
spreadsheet and word processing software,

* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills appropriate for
productive interaction with a full range of scientific and business
professionals,

* A strong commitment to quality and professionalism and preparedness to
work in a very 'hands-on' way.

* Flexibility and enthusiasm in attitude and approach - a desire to do
proactively what needs to be done in a small team environment with the
persistence and tenacity to see tasks through to completion.

Applicants should send a resume, the contact information for three
professional references and a letter outlining their career objectives
by 31 March 2003 to:

Director, Human Resources
Garvan Institute of Medical Research
384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Tel: (02) 9295 8137
Fax: (02) 9295 8136
Email: e.ziegler@garvan.org.au

Additional information on Garvan and the Business Development Unit is
available at http://www.garvan.org.au

9. CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Agri business research
Lead R&D/commercialisation
Package $140 - $160,000

Our client is a cooperative venture between industry, universities and Federal and State government agencies. Its purpose is to enhance the competitiveness of the Australian egg and chicken meat industries through strategic programs of research that will enable industry to deliver safe, quality poultry products for domestic and emerging export markets, and in a cost-effective and socially responsible way. Reporting to the Board, you will assume responsibility for developing and implementing research, business and education plans, managing stakeholder relationships, controlling the finances, forming national and international bilateral linkages, and enhancing the organisation's reputation.
A salary package of $140 - $160,000 pa will be negotiated with the successful candidate. Location: Sydney, Armidale or Melbourne. Overseas and interstate travel will be required.
You will demonstrate capacity to provide strategic leadership in the animal production industry, exceptional ability to manage research, superior people management skills, and business capability. You are credible with government, industry and researchers, and may have had an outstanding career in research.
Talk to us in confidence. See http://www.strathmoremurphy.com.au or make an initial expression of interest, in confidence, to Philip Stevens on (03) 9696 4522 quoting No. T869 or in writing to: Level 19, 60 Albert Road, South Melbourne 3205
Fax: (03) 9696 4710 Email: strathmore@primus.com.au

10. CENTRE MANAGER - Australian Maritime Hydrodynamics Research Centre

The AMHRC is a new centre, primarily located at the Australian Maritime College (AMC) in Launceston, Tasmania, which is now being developed as part of the Commonwealth Government's Major National Research Facilities Program by the AMC, the University of Tasmania and the Defence Science and Technology Organisation of the Department of Defence. The opportunity exists for a research oriented person possessing excellent management skills to become the Centre Manager for the AMHRC. The Centre Manager is accountable for the administration and business development of the AMHRC.

Under the guidance of the AMHRC Board the Centre Manager is responsible for achieving the strategic direction and governmental reporting requirements of the Centre as well as managing and exploiting intellectual property produced. Operationally the Centre Manager is required to work within the structure, policies and procedures of the AMC.

Preference will be given to a candidate with postgraduate qualifications (preferably PhD) in Engineering or related disciplines. Research experience in Australia is desirable and experience in the field of hydrodynamics will be highly regarded. The ideal candidate will also have a demonstrated background of success managing complex businesses. A diversity of functional experience leading to a senior management role would be preferred. The ideal candidate will also possess demonstrable skills in business and strategic planning and in business development.

The position is initially a 60% fractional 3 year fixed term appointment and employment conditions and remuneration package will be negotiated under an AWA. The possibility exists of extending the position after 3 years as does the opportunity for additional employment as a lecturer or other AMC-related position up to a full time position. Reasonable relocation expenses to Launcestion may also be payable.

Information about the position can be obtained from Dr. Barrie Lewarn on (03) 6335 4713 or email: B.Lewarn@mte.amc.edu.au Information concerning conditions of employment, copies of the duty statement and selection criteria can be obtained from the Employee Services office of AMC on (03) 6335 4715 or email: K.Roach@corp.amc.edu.auor from positions vacant at http://www.amc.edu.au

Applications addressing the selection criteria, including a curriculum vitae and the names and addresses of two referees should be forwarded by Friday 11th April, 2003 to: Manager - Employee Services (Applications), AMC, PO Box 986, Launceston, Tasmania, 7250.

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CALL FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

11. RESEARCH INTO OVERWEIGHT/OBESITY AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE (CVD) - National Heart Foundation of Australia

The National Heart Foundation of Australia (NHFA) is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified applicant/s to undertake work in the area of overweight/obesity and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Three tasks have been identified, which are documented in a detailed Project Brief. This work may be of interest to individuals, organisations or consortia.

To obtain a copy of the Project Brief go to http://www.heartfoundation.com.au under "What's New". Expressions of Interest should be prepared in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the Project Brief and should be submitted by no later than 4pm on Friday 4 April 2003. For further information contact Ms Ernestine van Herwerden at the NHFA (Victorian Division) on (03) 9329 8511, or email ernievh@heartfoundation.com.au

Please note: the deadline to register your intent has been extended to Monday 31 March 2003.

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CONFERENCES

12. NOTICE OF ANNUAL SYMPOSIUM - Australian Academy of Science

"Nanoscience: Where physics, chemistry and biology collide" is the topic for the Australian Academy of Science's annual symposium to be held on Friday, 2 May 2003 as part of Science at the Shine Dome in Canberra.

The program covers the biological, chemical, engineering and environmental aspects of nanoscience and features an impressive cast of speakers:

* Dr Angela Belcher, John Chipman Associate Professor of Materials Science and Engineering and Bioengineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

* Dr Michael Barber, Executive Director, Science Planning, CSIRO

* Professor Frank Caruso, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Melbourne

* Professor Paul McCormick, Chief Executive Officer, Advanced Powder Technology

* Dr Paul Mulvaney, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne

* Dr Vijoleta Braach-Maksvytis, Co-director CSIRO Nanotechnology

* Professor Max Lu, Director, Nanomaterials Centre, University of Queensland

* Professor Bob Clark, Director, Centre for Quantum Computer Technology

* Dr Robin Batterham, Chief Scientist, Commonwealth of Australia

The symposium is open to scientists, media and the general community. The program and registration form are available on the web at http://www.science.org.au/sats2003/index.htm.

For further information contact Marian Heard at the Academy on phone 02 6247 5777 or email marian.heard@science.org.au.


13. 5th INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS ON INDUSTRIAL AND APPLIED MATHEMATICS
7-11 July 2003
Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre

The Congress celebrates and describes the contributions of applied mathematics - as an intellectual creation in its own right, as a foundation stone of technological development, and as an indispensable collaborative partner for other scientific disciplines. These aspects of applied mathematics have held true since the dawn of civilisation. They will remain just as important in the new millennium.

Featuring:

* the major event in this space, worldwide, during the current four-year period

* planned 2000 delegates

* six embedded meetings (including computational mathematics, engineering mathematics, operations research, financial mathematics)

* Industry Day - Tuesday, 8 July

* Education Day - Wednesday, 9 July

* Community Day - Thursday, 10 July

* Trade exhibition

Industry Day will feature a set of Special Technological Workshops to showcase the present and anticipated role of mathematics in key industry sectors. These Workshops will feature speakers from Australia, UK, Germany, Austria, Japan and the USA.

Registration fees:

'Regular' (before 31 March): $715
'Late' (1 April to 20 June): $825

Full details & contact:

http://www.iciam.org
Noel Barton, Congress Director
Noel.Barton@csiro.au, (02) 9325 3270

14. DISCOVERY SCIENCE & BIOTECHNOLOGY, 2003

Brush up on the latest developments in Genomic science, proteomics and stem cell research for only $295.

This 2-day meeting at Dockside, Cockle Bay Wharf, Sydney ~ May 15-16, 2003 covers the whole genomic and proteomic approach to biotechnology - SNP's in diagnosis, gene attenuation by RNAi, antisense and ribozymes, the latest genomic techniques including arrays, SAGE and reverse transfection, 2-D gel methods for proteomic discovery from the 2 biggest groups in Australia and much more. There is also a session on the use of adult stem cells progressing from adult stem cell isolation and gene expression to in vivo differentiation and human clinical trials.

Keynote address will be given by:

Alan Colman - famous for his work in the production of transgenic animals and then the cloning of "Dolly", he is now director of research programs with ES-Cell International in their Singapore Labs.

Andrew Fraser - a group leader in the prestigious Sanger Institute in Cambridge. His recent work uses genome wide RNAi approaches to determine gene function (Nature Jan 16, 2003).

This is the last week for discount registration. Please check the program and register on line at: http://www.magicdatabases.com/DSB.html

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BUSINESS SERVICES

15. ERNST & YOUNG R&D SERVICES

Ernst & Young Australia boasts one of the most experienced and multi-disciplined Innovation & Incentives practices in Australia. Comprising specialists with hands-on expertise in developing technology and leveraging government assistance, Ernst & Young's team is dedicated to helping clients gain maximum value from their R&D investments.

Ernst & Young has extensive experience with the R&D Tax Concession, R&D Tax Offset (cash rebate), R&D Start grants and loans, and Biotechnology Innovation Fund. We can also assist companies to access Export Market Development Grants and other State and Commonwealth grants. We help hundreds of Australian companies to access substantial R&D benefits each year.

Ernst & Young can help you to select the type of R&D assistance that best suits your company, considering your circumstances, your industry and your R&D projects. For more information on how Ernst & Young can help, please contact an office near you or visit our website at http://www.ey.com.au

Perth: Robin Parsons (08) 9429 2251
Melbourne: Steven Batrouney (03) 8650 7571
Melbourne: Alun Needham (03) 9288 8099
Sydney: Craig Fowler (02) 9248 5308
Sydney: Sandra Mason (02) 8295 6267
Brisbane: Lisa Chamberlain (07)3011 3239
Brisbane: Lindsay Somerville (07) 3011 3236
Adelaide: Chris Sharpley (08) 8233 1685

 

 


 

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