News and views

Explore updates on Academy initiatives, scientific developments, and expert perspectives on issues shaping research and policy. Our commentary reflects the Academy’s role in fostering informed discussion and sharing thought leadership that connects science with society.
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‘Evolution-bending’ gene editing technology—do the potential benefits outweigh the risks?

With new gene-editing technologies that override natural selection set to come into use in the next 3-5 years, now is the time for Australia to have a national discussion about the implications of the new technology, according to a new report released today by the Australian Academy of Science.

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New corresponding members admitted to the Academy

Dr Raghunath Mashelkar (India) and Professor Rüdiger Wehner (Switzerland) have been admitted to the Australian Academy of Science for outstanding scientific contributions to their fields.

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Experts issue communique on nuclear fuel cycle

A symposium of energy experts has called for a national discussion on nuclear options, including mining, power generation and waste storage, to help address Australia's energy security and climate change challenges.

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Polymer science making plastic fantastic

Smarter bank notes, health-protecting wearable electronics, and bendy solar cells are just some of the ways that polymer science is making plastic fantastic. Next week, three Australian researchers will tell audiences in Sydney and Melbourne how they are putting polymers to work.

Australia joining the (new) space age

Sixty years ago, the dawn of the space age was marked by the launch of Sputnik. Fifty years ago this April, Australia joined in the space game with the flight of two Skylark rockets from Woomera in April 1967.

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Fellows recognised in Australia Day honours

Academy President Professor Andrew Holmes has been recognised with Australia’s highest honour, Companion in the General Division of the Order of Australia in the 2017 Australia Day Honours list.

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Have your say on the future of agriculture

The Academy's National Committee for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food is looking for comments and feedback on the final draft version of the Decadal Plan for Agricultural Sciences.

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Nobel Prize winner marks 20 year anniversary

Members of the scientific community gathered at the Shine Dome in Canberra to celebrate the work of Professor Peter Doherty, marking the 20th anniversary of his Nobel Prize in Medicine.

To vaccinate, or not to vaccinate—new booklet launched to address immunisation fears

Minister for Health the Hon Sussan Ley MP has today joined the presidents of the Australian Medical Association and the Australian Academy of Science, Nobel Laureate Professor Peter Doherty and paediatrician Dr Michael Freelander MP to launch The Science of Immunisation: Questions and Answers.