SCIENCE POLICY

• Media releases
• Reports and submissions
• Nanotechnology Benchmarking Project
• Strategic Plan: 2010–2015

Overview

Good government requires accurate, authoritative and balanced information as the basis for decision making. The objectives of the Academy are to promote science through a range of activities, with one of its major areas of interest being the contribution of advice to assist the formulation of evidence-based policy directed at national needs and to inform international debate. The Academy brings together top Australian scientists – from universities, industry and government – all of whom are seen as world figures in their fields. This provides the capability to access expertise over many scientific areas and issues.

The Academy also supports 21 national committees. Each committee, widely representative of its discipline, fosters a designated field of science, and serves as a link between Australian and overseas scientists in that field. The committees are frequently called on to comment on proposals and advise on science policy. Through the national committees and ad hoc committees, the Academy prepares reports, submissions and public statements.

Issues in science

Climate change

The Science of Climate Change: Questions and Answers was prepared by a Working Group and Oversight Committee made up of Academy Fellows and other Australian scientists with internationally recognised expertise in climate science.

It was launched at the Shine Dome on Monday 16 August 2010 as part of National Science Week.

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Creationism and intelligent design

More than 70,000 scientists and science teachers are represented in an open letter warning that 'intelligent design' should not be taught in school science classes.

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Statement on ethics

The Academy of Science adheres to the principles outlined in the Joint NHMRC/AVCC Statement and Guidelines on Research Practice (1997). Research involving humans should conform to the principles outlined in the NHMRC's National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Research Involving Humans. Research involving animals should conform to the principles outlined in the NHMRC's Animal research ethical issues.

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Gene technology and GM plants

The Academy supports the responsible and ethical use of gene technologies to produce genetically modified plants for use in Australian agriculture and works with governments, scientists, NGOs, international organisations and the community on all GM-related issues.

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Stem cells and human cloning

The Academy of Science continues to promote public discussion on human stem cell research and restates its position of opposition to cloning 'whole human being' on the basis of safety and general ethical concerns. The recent developments in stem cell research show the scientific and ultimately therapeutic importance of undertaking basic research in cellular and developmental biology prior to clinical application of that research.

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Preserving the records of modern science

At its meeting on December 16, 2000 the Commission on Bibliography and Documentation of the International Union of History and Philosophy of Science (IUHPS) discussed the need to preserve permanently the historically valuable paper and electronic records of modern science and make them accessible to researchers.

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