November is shaping up to be a huge month, as Australia and the world prepare for the UN’s COP26 meeting in Glasgow. To help Australian policymakers, researchers and the public better engage with climate science and learn more about science-led solutions, the Academy has made all its climate resources available in a central hub, where you can find educational videos, policy reports, links to experts in renewable technologies and more.
This includes the important work being done by Future Earth Australia, such as their national strategy currently under development, the National Strategy for Just Adaptation. As we work to limit climate change and adapt to those changes already underway, this strategy is designed to ensure that the most vulnerable in society are not left behind.
This month, we made our support of Australian scientists loud and clear as we condemned the ongoing harassment of scientists who have publicly shared their COVID-19 expertise. A survey by the Australian Science Media Centre found one in five Australian scientists have experienced death threats or threats of physical or sexual violence. In our statement, Professor John Shine, President of the Academy, reiterated the unacceptability of this abhorrent behaviour.
Meanwhile, Australia’s investment in RNA research and manufacturing capabilities continue to expand, with NSW joining Victoria in committing funds to this important area. The Academy hosted a roundtable with the Australia and New Zealand RNA Production Consortium in July, and the full proceeding of that have been released this month. Australia’s research strength provides us with an opportunity to not just manufacture RNA-based products on shore but to be a global research leader and exporter.
Some say it is the decade of big data. Research certainly uses and creates complex data. This month we proudly launched a new report: Advancing Data-intensive Research in Australia. Based on consultations with the research community on the challenges and opportunities of data-intensive research in Australia, this report provides essential analysis of the data-intensive research field and how Australia must adapt to this new research paradigm.
We were very proud to see Academy Fellow Professor Justin Gooding’s team receive the Eureka Prize for Innovative Use of Technology for their work on a new bioprinting system that can produce 3D cell structures. This technology is set to be a game-changer for cancer research and therapeutic development.
Congratulations also to our Fellows, former Academy President Professor Suzanne Cory and Professor Jerry Adams, on their election as Fellows of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences. Our best wishes to you and the other 2021 Fellows.
Join us at upcoming Academy events on 3 and 4 November as part of Science at the Shine Dome. Fellows elected in 2020 and 2021 will present their work and achievements. This is a unique opportunity to hear about the work of our leading scientists from a wide range of disciplines and ask your own questions. You can join us by registering at the event website.
I hope you enjoy reading the October newsletter.
Anna-Maria
© 2024 Australian Academy of Science
