Astro-history, the human cost of climate change, and what on Earth (and in space) is dark matter?

Science in Public on 11 August, 2022

Dozens of Science Week stories around Western Australia

  • What does climate change have to do with human rights? – Perth
  • Astronomy superstar’s journey through space and time – Crawley
  • Hack a webcam; see inside your cells – Crawley
  • In a pickle about how much food we waste! – Girrawheen
  • Unlocking the mysteries of quantum and dark matters – a WA idea goes national
  • A modern-day Noah’s ark: conserving Western Australia’s threatened plants – Kensington
  • Doing more with less: greener living in a regional centre – Geraldton
  • Wattle vs woollybutt: what is Australia’s favourite tree? – online

More on these highlights below.

Scientists, experts and event organisers are available for interview throughout National Science Week.

Read More about Astro-history, the human cost of climate change, and what on Earth (and in space) is dark matter?

Quantum computing in silicon hits 99 per cent accuracy

Science in Public on 20 January, 2022

UNSW Sydney-led research paves the way for large silicon-based quantum processors for real-world manufacturing and application.

Images and media kit download

Australian researchers have proven that near error-free quantum computing is possible, paving the way to build silicon-based quantum devices compatible with current semiconductor manufacturing technology.

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Macquarie University to link Australia’s future smart satellites

Science in Public on 15 April, 2019

As partners in the $245 million SmartSat CRC announced in Adelaide this morning.

Eighty-four research and industry partners are contributing $190 million investment in cash and in kind to the new Cooperative Research Centre for Smart Satellite Technologies and Analytics, and the Australian government is contributing a further $55 million. The CRC is led by the University of South Australia. 

“A new generation of low-cost smart satellite technology has the potential to enhance agriculture, mining, communication and national security,” says Associate Professor Sam Reisenfeld, who leads Macquarie University’s contribution to the CRC.

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Starving cells may control melanoma

Science in Public on 19 February, 2014

Wednesday 19 February 2014

Centenary Logo

Could we treat melanoma by cutting off its food source?

The latest research from Sydney’s Centenary Institute and the University of Sydney suggests we could.

Last year the researchers showed they could starve prostate cancer. Now a further discovery opens up the prospect of a new class of drugs that could work across a range of cancers including melanoma.

Australia has the highest rate of melanoma in the world. It is the deadliest form of skin cancer, and third most common cancer in Australia.

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2013 Fresh Science State Finals

Science in Public on 10 April, 2013

How might tooth stem cells help repair damaged brains? How do trees cope with thirst and starvation? Do whales need personal space? And is there an early blood test for Alzheimer’s? These are some of the questions our 2013 Fresh Science State Finalists are working on. We’ve picked some of Australia’s brightest early-career scientists to participate […]

Colour-changing dragons to reveal their secrets

Science in Public on 7 April, 2013

Colour-changing dragons to reveal their secrets

A zoological mystery that could change medicine and solar energy?

Media call and release 11 am, Sunday 7 April with bearded dragons at the Zoology Department, University of Melbourne, Parkville.

 

Credit: Devi Stuart-Smith.

Credit: Devi Stuart-Fox.

An international research initiative led by the University of Melbourne’s Dr Devi Stuart-Fox will investigate how and why animals change colour — and what it costs them.

It will also open the way for scientists to imitate lizards and develop new materials that respond to light and temperature for energy and medical applications. Read More about Colour-changing dragons to reveal their secrets

Profile of Dr Devi Stuart-Fox

Science in Public on 7 April, 2013

From colour-changing lizards to colour-changing bandages…

Colour and movement show how species evolve, bring a second international L’Oréal For Women in Science honour, and a $470,000 ARC grant for University of Melbourne evolutionary biologist Dr Devi Stuart-Fox.

Devi Stuart-Fox is attracted to show-offs. “I’m just really fascinated by animals with fabulous colours and ornaments.” And ever since she was a teenager living in a bushland setting in an outer Brisbane suburb, she has also been delighted by lizards. She used to keep them as pets. Read More about Profile of Dr Devi Stuart-Fox