Australia needs an office for research integrity

Sweden is just the most recent of more than 20 European nations that have national offices for research integrity. So do the UK, US, Canada, Japan and China. Australia, which still lacks an Office for Research Integrity, is being left behind.

A welcome boost for commercialising research

Although Scott Morrison’s appearance at the National Press Club drew headlines for more controversial reasons, his announcement of more support for commercialising research has drawn the backing of stakeholders.

Rogue rocket to the moon

A discarded SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will crash into the dark side of the moon in a few weeks time, adding to the handful of man-made machines on its surface.

New virtual reality experience reveals secrets of WWII submarine

A new virtual reality experience developed by maritime archaeologists offers unprecedented access to a WW2 submarine sunk while on a secret mission in northern Australian waters.

Indigenous science cooperation

Many scientists rely on Indigenous people to guide their work – by helping them to find wildlife, navigate rugged terrain or understand changing weather trends – but we must also acknowledge the troubling attitudes that have long plagued research projects in Indigenous communities.

Human nature

Patent law should encourage innovation by protecting inventors but is all too often abused by large corporations at the expense of the common good.

Unpicking the waratah

A UNSW PhD candidate has led the genetic mapping of the floral emblem of New South Wales, the iconic waratah.

What sparked scientists’ interest in science?

As we embark on a new year, hopefully with more progress on the COVID-19 front, we asked six authors of The Conversation to reflect on what first sparked their interest in science.

Politicians should stop meddling in ARC research

If Australia wants to tackle the many wicked problems we face, including climate change and relations with China, we must ensure basic research is not subject to political interference.

The evolution of communication

Scientific progress has allowed mankind to adopt ever more sophisticated modes of communication, and this process is set to continue, perhaps allowing us to contact lifeforms beyond our own world.

Governments v big tech

This year’s headlines delivered news of an array of concerning data and privacy violations from the world’s biggest tech players, but it also seemed to be the year governments around the world addressed the problem head on.

Realising Australia’s quantum potential

Quantum technology represents a major opportunity for Australian research and strategic interests.