Media releases

Australian scientists share European research success

16 March 2011

Scientists from all around Australia – both senior scientists and those at the start of their
career – have gathered today at the Australian Academy of Science to share stories of their
international research exchanges.

The 25 Australians from a diverse range of scientific disciplines have worked in prestigious
European research facilities, received technical training and attended workshops, as part of
international collaborations designed to open European funding and research networks to the
rest of the world.

'Science is too vast for any one individual, institution or nation to go it alone,' said Professor
Franz Grieser, Chair of the Australian Academy of Science's Europe Committee.
'The global nature of some of the challenges facing the world in the 21st century, such as
climate change, natural disasters and pandemics, can only be addressed through international
efforts.'

In 2007 the Australian Academy of Science signed a reciprocal agreement with the European
Union's Cooperation in Scientific and Technical (COST) program to enable Australian
researchers to access this important source of funding, expertise and facilities.

'Participation in the COST program has helped raise the international profile of Australian
research through joint publications, by creating research networks with Europe and by
increasing Australian scientists' awareness of industry partners and support provided by
European funding agencies,' said Professor Grieser.

Since 2007, 80 Australian scientists have been funded to take part in COST Actions.

The Academy's involvement in the program has been made possible by the International
Science Linkages program of the Australian Government Department of Innovation, Industry,
Science and Research.