This month, the Academy took a stand against those who seek to undermine long-held scientific principles that exist for the public good. We did this because attempts to undermine science, harm us all.
I published a statement emphasising that society rightly holds scientists to the highest of standards, that trust in science cannot be taken for granted, and that scientists have a responsibility to practise and uphold scientific principles and rigorous processes.
Efforts to distort scientific evidence and undermine public trust in science are dangerous and must be called out. This sort of behaviour serves no good purpose and harms the underpinnings of a stable, safe and civil society that relies on evidence-informed decision making.
Also of concern are figures released this month by the Australian Bureau of Statistics showing that national investment in research and development (R&D) continues its 14-year decline. Increasing investment in R&D across business, universities and governments is necessary to improve productivity, boost the knowledge economy, and create new jobs and industries. It will take a decade or more of commitment and effort to boost total R&D investment, and work must start now.
In November the Academy’s National Symposium will address how national security concerns can be balanced with the need for international collaboration in an increasingly fragmented world.
This is a topical and complex issue that is being keenly debated across the world. We have a terrific range of speakers from Australia and abroad. Tickets are selling fast, and I encourage you to visit our website to learn more and register to attend in person or online.
The release of the Academy’s Reef Futures Roundtables Report attracted worldwide media and scientific attention. Produced for the Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, the report brought together 84 experts in many disciplines, including Traditional Owners and knowledge holders. The report highlights that in the medium-term there are opportunities to slow the decline in the health of the Great Barrier Reef but this requires Australia to take further action now.
Recognition of scientific achievement is an important part of celebrating those contributing to our nation's progress. I have great pleasure in congratulating Academy Fellow Professor Toby Walsh and Academy award recipient Professor Renae Ryan on their successes in the highly regarded Eureka Prizes, as well as three Fellows shortlisted for prizes. Well done to all the winners, it’s always exciting to find out about excellent achievements in Australian science. Congratulations also to Academy award recipient Professor Tianyi Ma for his selection as Australia’s nominee for this year’s APEC ASPIRE Prize, and to the 14 recipients of grants to support their collaborations with leading researchers in Europe.
Please enjoy the August newsletter.
Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC PresAA FREng FTSE
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