National Science Week
Celebrating our achievements across all areas of science
What do a world Top 10 researcher, a solution for one of Australia's largest export industries and a technique that could stop 200 species becoming extinct all have in common? The University of Newcastle has played a role in all of these science success stories.
As part of National Science Week from August 10-17, the University of Newcastle is shining a spotlight on the diverse science achievements of its world-leading researchers.
The University of Newcastle has a reputation for research excellence and is home to some of the finest research minds, according to Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Science and Information Technology, Professor Bill Hogarth.
"National Science Week is a good time to remember that the University is well-regarded in all fields of science, which is reflected in our ranking of the top three per cent of universities in the world," said Professor Hogarth.
"The Australian Research Council's Excellence in Research Australia (ERA) rating system lists our research at 'well above world-standard' in 14 fields of science," he said.
"Our researchers' collaborative work with industry, the community and other research partners has lead to discoveries that have improved the environment and lives of people around the world.
"Our scientists include acclaimed oncologist Professor John Forbes, listed as one of the Top 10 researchers in the world; and Laureate Professor John Aitken, 2012 NSW Scientist of the Year, who specialises in reproductive science."
Some of the success stories the University's innovative scientists have played a role in include:
- The invention of the Jameson Cell – a froth flotation process used by mining operations globally to separate minerals from host rock. The cumulative total value of export coal recovered by the Cell in NSW and Queensland is over $22 billion.
- The invention and commercialisation of the MobiDRIP - A mobile antibiotic device that will free-up hospital beds, dramatically lower home healthcare costs and provide options for patients in remote places that do not have access to electricity
- Discovery of a technique to resurrect living embryos from the extinct gastric brooding frog, and world-first cryo-preservation of amphibian embryonic cells that may prevent the extinction of 200 species of rare frogs
- Development of a care model that has been shown to reduce or even 'cure' stroke in some patients
- Discovery of a protein that protects against sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia
- Advancement of research understanding of how the heart regulates its beat
- Discovery of the role of stress as a risk factor for arthritis
The University also has an extensive science education and communication program with schools, teachers and the community, which they hold throughout the year.
For further information on some of the University's milestones in science, visit National Science Week.
Contact
- Kate Carragher
- Phone: +61 2 4921 5868
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The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.