Queensland at the forefront of global scientific research

From astrophysics to brain research and everything in between, Queensland scientists are pursuing scientific breakthroughs in every corner of the state.

Speaking at the Commonwealth Innovation Forum 2018 today in Brisbane, Minister for Environment and Science Leeanne Enoch said there was remarkable scientific research happening in Queensland.

“Take researchers from the Queensland Brain Institute at the University of Queensland for example, they are using ultrasound technology to break apart the plaques in the brain that result in memory loss and cognitive decline, holding up real hope for a new way to combat Alzheimer’s disease,” Ms Enoch said.

“And researchers from the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute have developed an online test for people aged 40 and over to predict their risk of developing melanoma over the next three-and-a-half years.”

Ms Enoch said Queensland’s scientific excellence was not just in medical research, but also in robotics, 3D printing of body parts, drone technologies including drones in agriculture, exoplanet exploration, agritech and industrial biotechnology, including developing new fuels and plastics sourced from sugar and algae and other natural resources.

The Palaszczuk Government is supporting key scientific research throughout the state through the $518 million Advance Queensland initiative.

“This research includes restoring wetlands around the Great Barrier Reef, developing new therapies to treat coeliac disease, using the body’s own immune system to fight cancer, and pinpointing the origins of schizophrenia,” Ms Enoch said.

“Supporting local talent is all part of the Palaszczuk Government’s vision to drive a knowledge economy in the state, based on science, innovation and entrepreneurship.”

Ms Enoch said through the Advance Queensland initiative, the Palaszczuk Government was supportive of research that has real-world application, with benefits across the board for all Queenslanders – from improved healthcare to the creation of jobs and business opportunities.

“In addition, scientists in my department – the Department of Environment and Science (DES) – are at the forefront of research and new technologies that support a clean environment and protect Queensland’s rich biodiversity,” Ms Enoch said.

“DES scientists also assist Queensland industries, including agriculture and natural resources, by providing them with the information and tools they need to improve efficiency.

“For example, our soil scientists are helping Queensland’s primary producers understand soil health, soil nutrients and constraints to cropping to get the most out of their land. Climate scientists are also working with producers to better manage drought and climate impacts.”

For more information about Queensland Science, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/dsiti/science-innovation

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