Queensland researchers funded to tackle global issues

The Palaszczuk Government has awarded almost $12 million to 50 Queensland scientists to tackle some of Queensland’s biggest health, food security, environmental and energy challenges.

Speaking at a Queensland science gala tonight, Deputy Premier Jackie Trad announced the Advance Queensland Research Fellowships included a range of research that would benefit Queensland and have global impact.

“Through these Advance Queensland Fellowships we are investing in research into renewable energy sources and new cancer treatments derived from Queensland rainforest plants, combatting antibiotic resistance, and ways to improve crop resilience and production,” Ms Trad said.

“We are supporting researchers from across the state who are collaborating with industry to give them a vital boost to ensure their significant research can translate into practical outcomes.

“Not only do we want to create jobs and boost commercialisation opportunities in Queensland, but we want to improve the lives of Queenslanders – and there is real potential to do that.

“This funding will also support research into improvements in the communication of disaster information, regional tourism, safety measures for unmanned aircraft and the early detection of cerebral palsy.”

Minister for Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy Leeanne Enoch said today’s announcement brings the Palaszczuk Government’s funding to more than $20 million to 90 Advance Queensland Research Fellowships since the establishment of the program.

“This commitment of almost $12 million, building on almost $10 million from the first round of fellowships, reinforces the priority the Palaszczuk Government places on supporting our globally recognised pool of talented Queensland researchers,” Ms Enoch said.

“By fostering collaboration between industry and government in important sectors we’re providing Queensland with the best chance to develop new technologies to help our existing industries such as mining and agriculture to thrive.”

The Research Fellowships program offers early-career fellowships of $180,000 over three years and mid-career fellowships of $300,000 over three years.

More information on the Advance Queensland Research Fellowship recipients is available at http://advance.qld.gov.au/research-fellowships

Media contacts:

Deputy Premier’s office 0429 890 942
Minister Enoch’s office 0412 393 909