Academy shines a spotlight on new Australian science with Research Focus video series

With the world’s population expected to reach almost 10 billion by 2050, increasing food production is one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century.

The future of our food sources relies on photosynthesis and scientists say improving photosynthesis is critical to improving crop yield.

Since 2014, the ARC Centre of Excellence for Translational Photosynthesis has made significant progress towards developing crops that will enhance growth and yield. New research at the centre has also found how to ramp up photosynthesis.

The work of the centre features in a new video published by the Australian Academy of Science.

The video is part of the Academy’s ‘Research Focus’ series, which creates unique digital video content to showcase the depth and breadth of Australian research that is sometimes unknown to the public and decision-makers.

The benefits of sharing research include the potential for further support and funding, and to encourage better understanding within the community about the benefits of public investment in research.

The Academy has more than 2.4 million followers on social media—one of the largest social media followings of any Australian science organisation. It produces accurate, trusted and engaging science content that is read and shared by millions across the globe.

Other institutions that have so far partnered with the Academy to highlight their research include:

University of Sydney

• New treatment for addiction?—Associate Professor Michael Bowen and his colleagues have developed a new drug which mimics the effects of oxytocin to treat addiction and social disorders and are gearing up to start human trials this year.

Queensland University of Technology

• Mapping the migrane mystery—Migraine is one of the leading causes of disability in the world. QUT researchers are involved in research which aims to identify which genes play a role in the debilitating illness.
• Ancient plant helps vaccine development—QUT scientists have sequenced the genome of an ancient Australian tobacco plant that helps develop vaccines and they’re sharing it with researchers around the world to aid the COVID-19 vaccine development effort.

The Academy invites Australian universities, research institutions and STEM organisations to partner with it and be part of the Research Focus video series.

Find out more about Research Focus.