I hope this July newsletter finds you all safe and well.
The expertise of Academy Fellows continues to inform decision making in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Rapid Research Information Forum (RRIF) which was established in April is playing an important role in providing independent, timely and accurate scientific advice to government. The RRIF is convened by Australia’s Chief Scientist, and its operations are led by the Academy of Science. You can access RRIF reports here and learn about the other resources the Academy has created to assist the community, teachers, researchers and decision makers more broadly.
Whilst the pandemic is challenging and has had many negative impacts on our society, the Academy recognises and applauds the Australian Government for consulting Australia’s most distinguished scientists to help navigate these very complex and challenging times. This informed and inclusive approach improves deliberations and strengthens all of us.
The Academy remains deeply concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on researchers, particularly early- and mid-career researchers who have limited job security yet are key contributors to the research undertaken across the country in an array of fields.
The July newsletter also offers some exciting developments about the digitisation of the Academy’s historic scientific archive. Following our digitisation fundraising appeal, the generosity of donors has allowed us to purchase vital scanners and start the digitisation of some of our collections, making them accessible to all. Thank you to our supporters and friends for your contributions.
Finally, we look forward to our online National Science Week activities in August. It’s clear that going online can make meetings and events more accessible and in the process open up science to a much wider audience.
I hope you enjoy the July newsletter.
Keep safe and well.
Anna-Maria
© 2024 Australian Academy of Science
