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CANCER, MENTAL HEALTH AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES THE FOCUS AT HIGH FLYER’S THINK TANK
5 November 2008

Some of Australia's brightest science minds will brainstorm new applications of science and technology to the diagnosis and prevention of cancer, mental health, metabolic syndrome and infectious diseases from 6–7 November.

The Theo Murphy (Australia) 2008 High Flyers Think Tank titled Preventative health: Science and technology in the prevention and early detection of disease will bring expert speakers and over 90 early- and mid-career researchers from diverse science fields together to help sow the seeds of innovation in preventative health.

Each year since 2002, the High Flyers Think Tanks convened by the Australian Academy of Science have provided an opportunity to discuss novel applications of existing science and technology as well as identify gaps in knowledge that might be addressed when applying science (including social science) and technology to significant issues.

Expert speakers provide the setting for discussion by participants. This year's speakers include Professor Bruce Armstrong FAA* discussing cancer, Professor Chris Goodnow FAA discussing statistics, genes and the environment, Professor Ian Hickie discussing mental health, Professor Kerin O'Dea discussing metabolic syndrome and Professor Graham Brown discussing infectious diseases.

Outcomes are expected to contribute to a range of government initiatives aimed at increasing the role of prevention in health care such as the National Preventative Health Taskforce.

President of the Academy, Professor Kurt Lambeck, was excited at the potential of the gathering to improve the health of the Australian community:

'In this climate of review and reform, the Academy of Science will provide a strong statement regarding future directions for the country's science and technology in preventative health for the benefit of all Australians.

'By involving early- and mid-career researchers from diverse research backgrounds relevant to preventative health, the Think Tank's outcomes will provide a fresh and relevant approach informed by Australia's future leaders and policy makers.'

The Think Tanks provide opportunities for career development and network creation for participants, and increase community awareness and exposure of Australian scientific advances. They also encourage collaboration and the transfer of ideas and skills between scientists and technologists.

The proceedings and outcomes of the Think Tank will be available on the Academy website.

Further information: www.science.org.au/events/thinktank2008

What: Theo Murphy (Australia) 2008 High Flyers Think Tank - Preventative health: Science and technology in the prevention and early detection of disease

When: 6–7 November

Where: University of Sydney, Eastern Avenue Lecture Theatre, Eastern Avenue Complex

Media: Professor Kurt Lambeck and speakers will be available for interview.

Media contact: Richard Bray, 02 6201 9452, 0416 331 821, richard.bray@science.org.au

* Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science