Gradient index (GRIN) plasmonics is a hybrid technology that opens the door to a wide range of exotic optics, including superfast computers based on light rather than electronic signals, ultra-powerful optical microscopes able to resolve DNA molecules with visible light, and ‘invisibility’ carpet-cloaking devices.

IPTA and AusBiotech are urging the Senate Legal and Consitutional Committee to favour the Intellectual Property Laws Amendments instead of patentable subject matter amendments, as they are more comprehensive in terms of Australian patent law.

Researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have revealed the role of a key gene in enabling blood stem cells to renew themselves, a finding that might have implications for issue repair and transplantations. [ + ]

Today's scientists find they struggle to keep up with the information overload of our modern IT age. With a constant flow from multiple modes of communication, a plan to prioritise needs to be put in place.

Ian Frazer and his team are pursuing an ambitious strategy to produce a DNA vaccine against herpes simplex virus 2. [ + ]

Herpes simplex virus type 2 has managed to evade vaccine strategies to date, although DNA vaccines might finally offer a solution. [ + ]

A radical new type of vaccine is on the horizon, one that uses the body’s own cellular machinery to provoke a comprehensive immune response. DNA vaccines offer many advantages over conventional vaccines. [ + ]

Lab managers need to avoid being too risk averse when working to accommodate researchers’ needs. [ + ]

Keeping a life science lab running smoothly and safely has become an increasingly complex and demanding task. [ + ]

US technology company, Danaher, is to acquire Beckman Coulter in a deal worth US$6.8 billion. [ + ]

Astrobiologist Charles Lineweaver on the implications on cancer research of his recent paper suggesting cancer cells are like early multicellular life. [ + ]

Dr Uta Wille bridges the gap between chemistry and biology and is bringing her unique insight to bear on the role played by free radicals in damaging DNA. [ + ]

The eagle-eyed among us rally to red and the Mr Magoos are wooed by blue.

The Excellence in Research for Australia 2010 report shows that Australian researchers produce world class output in immunology, quantum physics and history, but fall behind in other areas. [ + ]

Professor Steve Wilton presented the results of a recently completed clinical trial on a promising new genetic therapy for patients with muscular dystrophy at the AH&MR Congress. [ + ]