Frontiers of Science

Dr Leonie Walsh, Lead Scientist of Victoria, speaks at the Frontiers of Science conference

The development of new materials to meet the challenges of the 21st century was the focus of this year’s Theo Murphy Frontiers of Science conference.

Materials for the 21st century: from design to application was held from 9–11 December in Melbourne. The latest in the Frontiers of Science series, it brought together the best young Australian scientists working across the materials science field.

The Theo Murphy events aim to be multi-disciplinary; this year’s symposium included topics such as new techniques and materials to improve drug delivery, energy and food production, and ways to develop the next generation of flexible electronics.

The attendees found it to be an excellent networking environment, with many identifying new collaboration partners. As one delegate observed, ‘With such a broad range of topics it was great to see where the key focuses are for these industries and who is leading the fields. Networking with these people will help as my career evolves’.

A special session examined the challenges for women in materials science and was followed by a lively discussion.

© 2024 Australian Academy of Science

Top