Australia's Nanostructural Analysis Network Organisation (NANO) was established four years ago to provide top-tier microscopy services for Australian scientists. [ + ]

The spectacular images Brad Marsh is able to capture using NANO's cryo-transmission electron microscope are teaching us more about pancreatic beta cells. Fiona Wylie spoke to the man behind the microscope. [ + ]

A new technology combining imaging with conventional flow cytometry has arrived in Australia. Kate McDonald spoke to the inventor, Amnis Corporation's Dr David Basiji. [ + ]

A breakthrough in the production of biofuels has been developed by scientists in Germany. Research published in the September 2006 issue of Microbiology, described how specially engineered bacteria could be used to make fuel completely from food crops.

A team of CSIRO scientists has determined the molecular structure of the insulin receptor, the protein on the surface of cells that mediates the effects of insulin.

Animal health care company Vet Biotechnology has launched a collection service for equine umbilical cord stem cells from the afterbirth of newborn thoroughbred foals. [ + ]

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals has entered into a heads of agreement with Genepharm Australasia for the sale of Clinuvel's EpiPharm range of pharmaceutical products. [ + ]

A new drug has been shown to improve blood flow in diseased arteries, reducing the risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks, a Monash University study has revealed. [ + ]

The University of Queensland's start-up, RapiSure Pty Ltd has secured its first round of investment from life sciences venture capital company, Symbiosis Group Ltd.

The University of Queensland and the Australian of Year, Professor Ian Frazer, said $100 million towards new science infrastructure would pave the way for Queensland to have one of the world's most advanced medical research facilities.

The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) and Engineers Australia plan to work more closely together to advance the development of better public policy in relation to engineering and technology issues.

The value of the Australian life science sector declined 3.5 per cent during the fourth quarter, ending 30 June 2006, according to the latest BioForum report from PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). [ + ]

Brain scan of nuns finds no 'God Spot' [ + ]

Three CSIRO scientists who helped develop new guidelines for the responsible management of contaminated sediments in our harbours, estuaries and rivers have won the Land & Water Australia Eureka Prize for Water Research.

The Fields Medal, considered to be the Nobel Prize of Mathematics, was awarded to Professor Terence Tao. This is the first time an Australian has won this award.