News Alerts

Timeframe for ERA trials revised

The Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr, has announced the timeframe for the Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) trial, which will evaluate the Physical, Chemical and Earth Sciences (PCE) and Humanities and Creative Arts (HCA) clusters.

He said that in the light of feedback on the ERA Submission Guidelines and ERA–SEER Technical Specifications which raised concerns about the proposed timing of the ERA trial, submissions for the PCE cluster will now commence in June 2009, while submissions for the HCA cluster will commence in August 2009. The outcomes of these trials will inform the full ERA process in 2010.

Senator Carr said recent feedback had also raised concerns about the scope of some of the data to be collected.

“Following this feedback, esteem indicators will not be included in the ERA trial. I have asked the ARC to further investigate the collection of esteem indicators, which will be included in future evaluations,” he said.

The ARC will release the final ERA Submission Guidelines and ERA–SEER Technical Specifications for the trial, in early March. More information is at www.arc.gov.au.

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New CEO for ANSTO

Dr Adrian Paterson has taken up his position as Chief Executive of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), replacing Dr Ron Cameron who was acting in the position from May last year.

Dr Paterson’s previous position was general manager, Business Development and Operations, at the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor Company in South Africa. He is also past Chair of the South Africa Innovation Fund and a former member of the National Advisory Council on Innovation. Dr Paterson has a BSc in Chemistry and a PhD in Engineering from the University of Cape Town.

Since 2006, his responsibilities at the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor Company focused upon the development of a passively safe, high temperature gas reactor for process heat and international commercialisation.

From 2001 to 2006, Dr Paterson worked at the Department of Science and Technology in various science policy roles including the development of national innovation instruments and Research and Development strategy.

From 1984 to 2001, Dr Paterson worked at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (South Africa’s equivalent to CSIRO), rising through a number of assignments to the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer. 

Dr Paterson is 52 and married with two sons who are presently studying at university. His appointment is for five years.

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New Chief for CSIRO Mathematical and Information Sciences.

A Professor and former Chair of Biostatistics at Harvard University in Boston, USA, Dr Louise Ryan, has been appointed Chief of CSIRO Mathematical and Information Sciences.

Dr Ryan left Australia for the United States 29 years ago to do her PhD, and has since contributed to a broad range of public health problems, including designing and analysing clinical trials to identify better treatments for cancer and identifying environmental exposures to toxic substances, such as arsenic in drinking water in developing countries.

Dr Ryan took the position with CSIRO a few weeks ago, based in North Ryde, Sydney. She will remain on the Harvard faculty as an Adjunct Professor of Biostatistics.

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New rural R&D advisory body appointed

The membership of the Rural Research and Development Council, a new advisory body formed as the result of an election commitment, has been announced.
The Council, which met for the first time last month, will be the key strategic advisory body on rural research and development. It is chaired by science policy and plant physiology expert Dr Kate Fairley-Grenot.

Other council members are Professor Rob Clark AM; Cathy McGowan AO; Mark McHenry; Professor Jim Pratley; Dr Robert Rose; Chief Scientist Professor Penny Sackett; Dr Frances Shapter; Anne Stünzner; and Professor Beth Woods OAM.

The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke said the council will look for opportunities to improve productivity and environmental outcomes of rural industries, including respose to climage change, water shortages, biosecurity threats and trade access.

Biographies of council members are available at www.daff.gov.au/agriculture-food/innovation/council

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Funding for soil carbon and nitrous oxide emissions research

Funding of  $32 million has been announced under the Climate Change Research Program to research soil carbon and nitrous oxide emissions in Australian agriculture.

$20 million has been allocated to research the potential benefits of soil carbon storage. Nine soil carbon research projects will sample a range of agricultural systems, including cereal crops, sheep and beef grazing, sugarcane and vegetable farming, irrigated and non-irrigated dairy, and sites which have changed from one farming system to another.

Key priorities for the soil carbon research will include:

• Measuring carbon levels in a range of agricultural systems;
• Understanding the impacts of management practices on soil carbon; and
• Understanding the role Australian soils could play in sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

$12 million has been committed to nine nitrous oxide emissions research which will monitor emissions from soils in five key farming systems – sugar cane, cotton, dairy pasture, non-irrigated and irrigated cereal cropping.

The Climate Change Research Program forms part of Australia’s Farming Future, an initiative designed to help our primary industries adapt and respond to climate change.

The research will also complement research projects funded through Caring for our Country. More information is at www.daff.gov.au/farmingfuture

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Newcastle wins Clean Energy Innovation Centre

The Federal Government has announced that the national headquarters of its $20 million Clean Energy Innovation Centre (CEIC), funded under the Enterprise Connect program, will be located at Newcastle.

The centre will be hosted by Newcastle Innovation, the commercial arm of the University of Newcastle. Other partners include Enterprise Connect, the Australian Institute of Commercialisation and the Western Australian Sustainable Energy Association. It will be located in the Industry Development Centre at the University of Newcastle's Callaghan campus, with a staff of six and a director. Newcastle Innovation will also appoint three specialist staff to provide complementary services.

The CEIC will provide support for small and medium-sized Australian clean energy companies to grow their commercial activities. Services will include:

• Comprehensive reviews of companies to identify strengths and weaknesses, strategic business issues, and potential areas for improvement and growth;
• Providing grants to address areas identified for improvement and growth;
• Finding and adapting the latest clean energy research and technology to help companies improve their products and manufacturing processes; 
• Providing access to specialist facilities and advice to turn innovative ideas into new products or to test products for new markets;
• Helping companies identify export markets and understand relevant regulatory, cultural and market issues;
• Helping companies become export ready, including through developing management and marketing skills;
• Identifying sources of government support for innovation and export activities;
• Acting as a hub for industry intelligence, workshops and networking activities;
• Connecting new and existing enterprises to other companies for mentoring, private investment and partnerships;
• Mapping sectoral technology and supply chains; and
• Identifying complementary businesses that could lead to new business opportunities.

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SA Innovation and Investment Fund grants announced

Funding of $15.4 million has been announced for ten grants under the first round of the South Australia Innovation and Investment Fund.
The $40 million Fund was set up by the Australian and SA governments in response to the closure of Mitsubishi’s Tonsley Park assembly plant in March last year.

The first ten grants, The ranging from $366,000 to $3 million, will fund projects to establish and expand local manufacturing capabilities. Projects receiving $1 million or more include:

• Labanalysis Services, $3 million - A start-up company establishing a geochemical, metallurgical and environmental analysis laboratory to service SA's uranium, base metals, iron ore and gold industries.
• Broens Industries, $2,500,000 - Establish an aerospace and defence component machining facility to be called 'Aerospace Engineering SA'.
• Levett Engineering, $2,250,000 - Expansion to position the company as a long-term production supplier to the international aerospace and defence sector.
• Ferrocut Australia, $2,250,000 - Establish a state of the art plate profile cutting centre at the Techport facility with concurrent expansion of existing capability in all profile cutting disciplines to capture opportunities provided through the Air Warfare Destroyer, Olympic Dam, Desalination and other new infrastructure projects.
• Australian Advanced Manufacturing Centre, $1,500,000 - Provide an integrated design, construct, install, service, monitor and maintain facility for construction of manufacturing machinery based on commercial ready IP, developed by customers in the advanced manufacturing, renewable energy/climate change, defence and mining industry sectors for export.
• Carl Zeiss Vision Australia Group, $1,000,000 - Expand customised prescription lens manufacturing capability with state of the art freeform equipment to increase capacity to deliver innovative, high quality spectacle lenses.
• Intex Holdings, $1,000,000 - "bolt-on" turbine technology designed to dramatically reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in new and existing car and truck fleets. Funding will enable local production of this Australian invention.
• Samaras Group, $1,000,000 - Improve domestic capacity and be in a position to undertake custom beam manufacturing work. 

Applications for the second round of the industry development program are open and must be received by the Australian Government Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research by 29 May 2009.

Information on how to apply is available at www.innovation.gov.au or phone (03) 9268 7548.

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Victorian SME Market Validation Program launched

The Victorian government has launched its $28 million Smart Small to Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) Market Validation Program to help turn Victorian technology ideas into innovative new products and services.

The Smart SMEs Market Validation Program is part of the $300 million Victorian Innovation Statement, Innovation: Victoria’s Future announced in August 2008. Under the program, Victorian public service bodies will identify needs that require new technology solutions and engage SMEs to explore the feasibility of solutions and conduct the R&D to proof-of-concept.

The proposed 'solution' must be a new technology solution – for example, biotechnology, nanotechnology or environmental technologies – to meet the specified requirements of the Victorian public sector entity.

Applications for Smart SMEs – Market Validation Program will open to SMEs mid-year.

For more information visit www.business.vic.gov.au/mvp

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Announcements

10th Anniversary of the Prime Minister's Prizes for Science: Call for Nominations CLOSING SOON

We are seeking nominations for Australia's most prestigious science and science teaching awards:

• The Prime Minister's Prize for Science ($300,000 + gold medallion)
• The Science Minister's Prize for Life Scientist of the Year ($50,000 + silver medallion)
• The Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year ($50,000 + silver medallion)
• The Prime Minister's Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools ($50,000 + silver medallion)
• The Prime Minister's Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools ($50,000 + silver medallion)

Nominations are open until 5.00 pm AEST, Friday 8 May 2009

Nomination Guidelines and online nominations are available HERE.

Contact: Science Prizes Secretariat, Department of Innovation, Industry, Science & Research on (02) 6276 1264 or email pmprize@innovation.gov.au

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Call for Applications: World Metrology Day Awards

World Metrology Day Awards

In recognition of World Metrology Day, which occurs on 20 May each year, the National Measurement Institute (NMI) is launching two awards for outstanding achievement in measurement. The Barry Inglis Medal will be awarded for major contributions to measurement science and technology through leadership or outstanding innovation. The NMI Prize will be awarded to young Australians who have shown originality or excellence in the application of measurement techniques.

NMI is responsible for Australia's national infrastructure in physical, chemical, biological and legal measurements. NMI establishes, maintains and realises Australia’s units and standards of measurement, thereby allowing Australian industry to operate competitively in a global environment.

The recipients of the awards will be announced on World Metrology Day 2009, with the awards ceremony held in mid-2009.

Closing date for applications: 31 March 2009.

For further information, contact yen.heng@measurement.gov.au.

Intending applicants should refer to the information package available from NMI’s website at www.measurement.gov.au/worldmetrologyday.

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A specialist intellectual property and innovation team has joined Hynes Lawyers

A specialist intellectual property and innovation team has joined Hynes Lawyers. The team, headed by Kerrin Anderson, Partner, includes members with scientific backgrounds and experience in advising both public and private sector research and development groups. Their expertise includes:

• Research and development transactions;
• Cooperative Research Centres;
• Information technology;
• Intellectual property commercialisation; and
• Intellectual property protection.

The team brings an extensive experience and knowledge of the research and development sector together with an understanding of commercial business environments to provide clients with practical advice that maximises successful IP outcomes. Coupled with Hynes Lawyers existing capability across the commercial, corporate and capital raising sectors, Hynes Lawyers has the capacity to assist clients across the spectrum of innovation – from the laboratory to the market.

For more information go to www.hyneslawyers.com.au.

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Conferences & Events

WA reappoints Chief Scientist (correction to item, 20/1/2009)

The Western Australian Government has re-appointed its Chief Scientist, Professor Lyn Beazley.

Professor Beazley is the Professor of Zoology at The University of Western Australia, and former leader of the WA Neurotrauma Research Program. She has served as Chief Scientist since 2006.

As part of the Chief Scientist’s role, Professor Beazley will also be a member of the Western Australian Science and Innovation Council and the Technology and Industry Advisory Council.

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Further Education

Specialist Certificate in Clinical Research (Biomedical Research Management)

Specialist Certificate in Clinical Research (Biomedical Research Management)

Success in biomedical research depends on outstanding research management capabilities. And that's something you can learn!

The Biomedical Research Manager needs to be able to lead, coordinate and manage the activities of experts from all the relevant technical, commercial and clinical disciplines, along with the stakeholders in a project – without losing their focus on the operational activities and strategic objectives. Students who successfully complete this subject will:

• Understand and be conversant with the major activities involved in planning biomedical research projects from start to finish
• Understand and be able to develop strategies to manage biomedical research projects
• Understand the nuances, rationales, politics, risks and benefits of dealing with a variety of project stakeholders
• Understand the need to comply with regulatory requirements, the processes to fulfil this and be able to identify potential regulatory and legal pitfalls
• Be able to prepare and operate a budget for biomedical research projects and adapt the budget to changing circumstances
• Understand what is required to develop a project plan for the commercial development of the outcomes of clinical research

Who Should Attend
Designed for professionals involved in biomedical research, this course provides development opportunities for those who wish to advance their career or move into a career in biomedical research management. For organisations it provides the opportunity to provide training that will help meet regulatory requirements, improve investment and risk management and develop staff to increase success rates and maximise economic return. For individuals it provides the opportunity for career development, to acquire the skills and tools to improve personal effectiveness and performance and to increase job satisfaction and success.

Dates
Part 1 - September 7, 8, 9 & 10 2009
Part 2 - October 12, 13, 14 & 16 2009

Cost
$4,200 per person
(GST is added for non award course attendants)

To register contact Elise Strande on (03) 9810 3136 or email e.strande@mccp.unimelb.edu.au.

Further information can also be found on our website.

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Positions Vacant

Project Manager, Fisheries Research

PROJECT MANAGER, Fisheries Research

• Scientific & Administrative Skills
• Wide Ranging Functions
• Attractive Remuneration

The Fisheries Research & Development Corporation ('FRDC') is widely recognised as the leading Australian agency concerned with planning, investing in, and managing fisheries R&D. The Corporation invests strategically across Australia to benefit the three sectors of the fishing industry – commercial (wild catch and aquaculture), recreational and indigenous. Total investment in projects under FRDC management is approximately $64 million per annum in an industry ranked fourth largest in Australia's food sector.

As Project Manager, you will be responsible for actively managing successful projects to ensure that the delivery of research outcomes is aligned to priorities and is delivered on time and on budget. In addition, you will identify and communicate research priorities and ensure that applications for research meet those priorities.

You will be challenged by the need to effectively work across an array of programs and projects within a diverse industry and maintain a current awareness of issues and close network of contacts on a national basis.

THE ROLE

• Engage with stakeholders in establishing R&D priorities, consider R&D proposals and asses final project applications against FRDC’s strategic priorities
• Manage projects (development, evaluation, budgets, milestones, revisions, progress, slippage and final reports) to ensure that R&D activities return the desired benefits
• Progress and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders, research agencies and other interested parties
• Contribute to the development and establishment of the corporation’s Strategic Plan and Annual Operational Plan
• Engage with the FRDC Communication Team, as well as external media, to identify opportunities to disseminate relevant information arising from research projects

THE REQUIREMENTS

• Experience in the planning, development and management of projects in an R&D environment or research administration
• Excellent administrative, analytical and problem solving capabilities coupled with computer skills (Microsoft suite of programs and database management)
• Very good organisational skills and flexibility with regards to duties being performed
• An understanding of Total Quality Management systems and processes would be highly regarded
• Strong team player who can facilitate interaction and cooperation and build lasting relationships both internally and externally to the organisation
• Tertiary qualifications in science or natural resource management with good knowledge of Australia’s fishing industry and/or marine environment

This position is well suited to a creative and innovative individual who has the ability to generate novel and valuable ideas.

Contact Stephen Penhall in confidence or fax, mail or email your application, quoting Reference No PF09S11 to:

Stelle International Pty Ltd
PO Box 3871 Manuka, ACT Australia
Phone: (02) 6299 9221 / Fax: (02) 6299 9224
Email: Stephen@stelleinternational.com.au

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Clinical Trials Officer - The Faculty of Medicine

Clinical Trials Officer
Faculty of Medicine
Reference No. 150729

The Faculty of Medicine is part of the University's Faculties of Health, the largest and most comprehensive grouping of health and medical education and research in the Asia Pacific region. It conducts cutting-edge research and provides medical education and training in more than 100 associated teaching hospitals and research institutes and centres.

The Faculty currently seeks an experienced Clinical Trials Officer to join a small and dedicated team of highly-regarded researchers. The team are responsible for coordinating multiple clinical trials of potential new therapies for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis.

This is a unique opportunity to develop your skills and gain clinical experience in a dynamic, friendly and fast-paced environment. You will find satisfaction in contributing to medical research that will have a positive impact on the health of Multiple Sclerosis patients. Your success in this role could potentially lead to the opportunity to manage your own trials in the future.

You will assist the Clinical Trials Manager with all aspects of conducting trials, including patient visits, record-keeping and case record completion. You will also set-up new patient files, collect new trial documents and prepare sensitive documents such as consent forms, invoices and sponsor ethics submissions.

As you will perform a diverse set of clinical and administrative duties while maintaining confidentiality and security, your flexible and resourceful approach and advanced time management and problem-solving abilities will be essential. Furthermore, your keen eye for detail and sensitivity to patient needs will be required to ensure the prompt reporting and monitoring of serious adverse affects and abnormalities.

As you will be required to perform intravenous cannulation to administer intravenous study medication and perform venipuncture to collect blood samples, prior experience with drug administration and blood collection will be essential. Equally important will be high-level computing and word processing skills, and verbal and written communication skills. Nursing experience and a Bachelors degree in a health-related field will be advantageous.

The position is full-time fixed term for 12 months, subject to the completion of a satisfactory probation period for new appointees. There is the possibility of further offers of employment subject to funding and need.

Remuneration package: up to $61,872 - $69,328 p.a. pro rata (which includes a base salary Level 5 $52,283 - $58,583 p.a., leave loading and up to 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation).

Level of appointment and responsibility will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

For more information and to apply, please visit http://positions.usyd.edu.au/researchjobs29

Specific enquiries about the role can be directed to Linda Pallot on (02) 9351 0704. General enquiries can be directed to Karen Royle on (02) 9036 7296.

Closing Date: 13 March 2009

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