Grants for new projects and conferences

The International Science Linkages Competitive Grants scheme has allocated $5.37 million to fund 21 new international scientific research projects and major scientific conferences.

The research projects being funded in round 13 of the grants scheme will establish and build on collaborations with international partners from the US, the UK, Brazil, Japan, Singapore, Germany and the European Union. When making the announcement, Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, said, "These projects see Australia taking a targeted approach to international collaboration in order to strengthen relationships with current and future scientific leaders.

"The projects will further add to Australia's high standing in the broader scientific community and global research effort."

The projects being supported are in a range of high-priority areas including research into clean energy technologies; investigation of climate change issues; and technologies to promote healthy ageing.

"Our involvement in these projects will enhance Australian research efforts. I look forward to the positive contribution that our investment in them will bring to our continued economic, environmental and social wellbeing. I wish the successful applicants well with their collaborations," said Senator Carr.

The successful projects funded under this round include:

• Investigation into the production of transportation bio-fuel, a technology that will help reduce CO₂ emissions and our reliance on imported petroleum. Undertaken by Monash University and American researchers, this project will contribute to Australia's environmental and energy security;
• Development of novel nanoparticles for magnetic resonance imaging that can target specific markers for cardiovascular disease and inflammation. Undertaken by the Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute and researchers from Germany, this technology will enable earlier intervention and treatment of heart disease; and
• Standardising the approach to remotely sensing greenhouse gases, atmospheric pollution and ozone depletion in the northern and southern hemispheres. Undertaken by the University of Wollongong and project partners from the EU, USA and NZ, this project will enable a detailed investigation of global climate change issues.

Details on all of the successful projects and further information about the International Science Linkages program is available.