Exploring the evolution of human-machine interaction from a "machine behaviour" perspective
2024-05-22 16:00 - 17:00 (Australia/Sydney) | Online
Abstract:
(How) Might intelligent machines influence the trajectory of cultural evolution? My seminar talk will map out a theoretical framework that we have developed to explore this conundrum and highlight how it guides our experimental work. Exemplifying our approach, I will present an experimental study in which we corroborated theoretical conjectures and anecdotal evidence for humans learning and preserving an adaptive strategy from machines that would be practically inconceivable for humans on their own. I look forward to discussing ways in which our methodological framework could be leveraged to address questions of interest to CSIRO’s Data61 , for instance to inform the intentional design of intelligent machines.
Bio:
Anne-Marie Nussberger is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Center for Humans and Machines, Max Planck Institute for Human Development in Berlin. Her research combines approaches from psychology, behavioural economics, and cultural evolution to understand how intelligent machines influence human beliefs, values, and behaviour.

Nerd Nite #56
2024-05-22 19:00 - 21:00 | Howler, 7-11 Dawson Street, Brunswick
Three presenters share a topic they are NERDY about while the audience shares a drink.
Join us for another fabulous Nerd Nite show! Speakers Chris, Nic and Ash will open new doors of understanding in their own nerdy way. Our shows have been selling out quick, so get in before all the tickets disappear!! Be there. Be square.
Wednesday, 22nd May
Howler (7-11 Dawson Street, Brunswick)
Doors: 7 pm
Show: 7:30 pm
Tickets: $15 + BF – Available now!!!
Picking up good vibrations: how propagating waves become squeals, squawks, and symphonies.
Chris Freelance
Description: The ominous rumble of an earthquake. The roar of jet engines. The lyrical chirps of the early bird. The timbre of a familiar voice. The tones of a catchy 60s tune whose title has been cannibalised for a Nerd Nite talk! All are the result of propagating waves caused by vibrations. So how are these sound waves detected by animals? How have animals evolved to produce and use sounds for communication? How does human-generated noise impact this and what can we do about it? Come along to hear Dr Chris’ vocal chords produce sound waves that answer these questions with a healthy serving of microscope images, bad jokes, and quirky facts about insect sensory systems and animal mating behaviour thrown in!
Bio: Dr Chris Freelance wears many hats: evolutionary biologist; research platform manager at The University of Melbourne; science communicator; photographer; violinist; and Lego nut. It wasn’t until nearly a decade into a career as a scientist he realised he could combine his interest in sensory systems with a love of nature and photography by using microscope techniques to examine the sensory systems of insects to learn more about how animals see, hear, and smell in different environments. (Alas he’s yet to find a way to work Lego into his job!) These insights contribute to a clearer understanding of the relationship between animal communication strategies and the environments in which they evolve, how this might be impacted by environmental change, and what this means for the future of those animal populations and the ecosystems they’re part of.
Socials: @biologychris (Twitter/X)

From Firewood to Fraud: A Victorian Tale of Taxa and Scandal in Brunswick
Nic Dolby
Description: In this talk, we will be taking a thrilling journey through the tangled vines of Victorian firewood history! We’ll dive deep into the fascinating world of taxa usage over time in Victoria, unearthing secrets about the neglected Casuarinaceae along the way. But hold onto your hats, because things are about to get scandalous! Picture this: a woodyard in Brunswick, devout Wesleyans, ethnic tensions, bigamies, fraud, and even a dash of intrigue ending in tragedy. It’s a rollercoaster ride through the social, geographic, and economic underbelly of Victorian firewood, where every twist and turn reveals a new layer of historical drama. Buckle up, because this talk is anything but ordinary!
Bio: Meet Nic Dolby, the globetrotting Aussie with a twist! From the swinging ’60s migration Down Under to traversing the landscapes of Aotearoa New Zealand, Traralgon, and the vibrant streets of Brunswick, Nic’s life reads like a colorful world map. From delivering papers to exploring ancient artifacts as an archaeologist, and from pedaling through city streets as a bicycle courier to advocating for the homeless, Nic’s journey has been as diverse as the cities he’s called home. With a knack for geography, environmental science, and even a dash of culinary expertise thrown in, Nic’s bio is as eclectic as it gets. And did we mention he’s as friendly as they come? Get ready to be inspired and entertained by Nic’s incredible adventures!

How to live on air
Ashleigh Kropp
Description: Bacteria are simply amazing. These tiny pockets of life cover every surface across the globe and have evolved to survive in the most hostile of climates. Usually when we think of bacteria, skin infections and 6-days-past-used-by chicken comes to mind. However, bacteria actually are far better at surviving than multiple cellular organisms like us. My research focuses on one of the most mundane but incredibly biodiverse places on the planet: the soil. Soil is everywhere and it is full of bacteria – in 1 gram of soil there is something like 40 million bacterial cells. In the soil these bacteria are employing some quirks to flourish, but also to survive. Frequently bacteria find themselves starving, struggling to survive in the absence of necessary nutrients (sugars), however, instead of dying, they rearrange their whole metabolism to eat air. Specifically, they ‘eat’ hydrogen and carbon monoxide gases, and turn this into energy that allows them to survive. Join me to tell you all about how they do this and why!
Bio: Ashleigh is a late-stage PhD student at Monash University studying weird and wonderful soil bacteria. She is trying to understand how bacteria can survive starvation by eating air and the enzymes at the heart of this process. She hasn’t always been fascinated by bacteria but after many years of pursuing human biology and getting confused by all the cellular metabolic pathways, she decided that soil bacteria are actually more fascinating. In her spare time, Ash is a keen reality TV aficionado and cat mum.
Socials: @Ashleigh_Kropp (Twitter/X)

Protein Futures 2024 - Scaling Up for Success
2024-05-28 - 2024-05-29 | Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney, 11 Jamison Street, Sydney NSW
The global population will reach 9.7 billion by 2050, fuelling the demand for protein. The world will need to produce more protein, sustainably, from a variety of sources. The increasing global demand for high-quality protein opens up new growth opportunities for Australia’s agrifood industry.
As a major producer and exporter of protein, Australian industry is well-placed to enhance existing animal and plant protein production alongside developing novel protein production systems and products that meet the requirements and preferences of changing consumers.
In the global race to fulfil protein demand, Australia holds a competitive advantage across plant, animal and novel protein technologies as long as we continue to invest urgently in the future.
This symposium provides an open forum for leading protein and food innovators to discuss challenges and opportunities. Together, we’ll consider the opportunities and challenges in scaling up protein production for the future, including looking at current and cutting-edge food science and technology.
In partnership with industry stakeholders and thought leaders, we’re discussing how the plant, animal and novel protein industries complement each other. Together, we all contribute to a more holistic protein industry, growing through sustainable and efficient technology development in a tightening capital market.

Materials Upcycling and Sustainability Exploration Workshop
2024-05-28 | Ian Wark Lecture Theatre, CSIRO, Research Way, Clayton, VIC
Join us for an engaging workshop navigating the landscape of waste upcycling and sustainability in Australia. Our goal is to foster collaboration between industry leaders and researchers, forging a path towards more sustainable upcycling processes. The workshop will feature key presentations from sector leaders, an industry focused panel discussion, and a poster session highlighting key technological developments and capabilities. Delve into the complexities of industry challenges, and explore innovative solutions that harness modern technologies and multidisciplinary science. Together, let’s seize the opportunity to create a greener, more sustainable future for Australia.

4th Annual Australian Renewable Energy Zones Conference
2024-05-29 - 2024-05-30 | Swissotel, Sydney
Informa Australia is delighted to announce the 4th Annual Australian Renewable Energy Zones Conference, which will be held on the 29-30 May 2023 at the Swissotel Sydney
The transformation of Australia’s electricity system & the accelerating growth of renewable energy across Australia is unprecedented. We are in the midst of a renewable revolution as we unlock the potential to become a renewable energy superpower with significant investments and development of renewable energy generation and technologies.
The event is perfectly timed to bring together and engage key stakeholders to discuss the latest developments and initiatives in the Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) across Australia.
By coordinating development in a strategic way, REZ will help secure future energy needs, deliver minimum cost energy, strengthen our economy through new investment and jobs, while maintaining net zero emissions.
Hear from Dr John Gardner, Empowerment Lead, Smart Energy Mission, CSIRO.

Our key topics Include:

The transformation of Australia’s electricity system
A look at state & local initiatives, policy, and future plans for new zones
The opportunity for regional Australia to foster long term prosperity & job creation
Development & investment – opportunities, considerations & risks.
Transmission – The missing link and bottleneck to achieve success
Storage – The key to improving supply and price security
What more can be done to increase community consultation, improve local acceptance for projects and avoid misinformation?
Overcoming hurdles – The role of transparency, collaboration & alliances
Case Studies – Updates from developers on operational assets and proposed projects
Renewable technology showcase & outlook

Register your interest to stay up to date with speaker announcements, early bird discounts and official agenda releases!

Atlas of Living Australia Webinar: Understanding Australian Biodiversity with Technology
2024-06-03 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
As a mega-diverse continent, Australia is home to hundreds of thousands of species, with more being discovered every year. Despite this, Australia faces one of the highest species extinction rates, meaning that innovative methods to detect and understand our biodiversity are becoming increasingly important.
Advancing technologies like genomics, imaging, ecoaccoustics, camera trapping, artificial intelligence and machine learning are changing the way that researchers and policymakers respond to climate risks, species conservation and protection, biosecurity and decision-making. In this webinar hosted by the Atlas of Living Australia, hear from three groups discuss how they’ve used next-generation technology to support Australian biodiversity research.

Future of Farming Systems Research Symposium
2024-06-04 - 2024-06-05 | Vine Inn Barossa 14-22 Murray St, Nuriootpa SA
This symposium will explore the potential for radical changes in farming system design and management to respond to combined shifts in agricultural technology, climate and policy settings. The scientific advances needed to support future farming systems and bridge the gap between drivers of increasingly large-scale farming operations and traditional research methods will be considered. This includes emerging sensor/space technologies, the role of AI, and automated on-farm experimentation. The Symposium will host a mix of CSIRO/non-CSIRO researchers and industry representatives and run as part of CSIRO’s “Ag2050” initiative https://research.csiro.au/ag2050/

Flow on effects: a critical decade for water management
2024-06-04 18:00 - 19:30 | Graduate House, The University of Melbourne, 220 Leicester Street Carlton
Presented by the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE)

The coming decade is poised to be crucial to advancing water technology and addressing pressing global challenges such as water security, sustainability, and the intersection of water with emerging energy technologies.
Within the next decade, we must address water security, meet evolving community needs, and explore opportunities for sustainability through circular economy initiatives.
We’re bringing together distinguished experts to explore these key issues and innovative solutions that will shape the future of water management.
Responsible for delivery of water, sewerage and recycled water services to 1.8 million people in Melbourne, Lara Olsen FTSE, Managing Director of South East Water will provide a firsthand view of critical issues facing the water industry over the next decade.
With a background in clean water technologies, Monash University Professor Huanting Wang FTSE will take us towards the cutting-edge technologies for water desalination and purification.
This seminar will be moderated by Distinguished Professor Baohua Jia FTSE, from RMIT University.

CSIRO Conversations: The future of Australian farming systems
2024-06-11 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
What could productive, resilient and sustainable farming systems look like in Australia by 2050?
This is the question our recently released Ag2050 Scenarios Report examines through the exploration of trends, risks, opportunities and evidence-based scenarios.
Join us, as experts from research, government and industry come together to discuss the key trade-offs across plausible futures for Australian farming systems in 2050.
The panel, moderated by Dr Katherine Wynn, Agriculture and Food Lead, CSIRO Futures, will explore the current landscape, significant trends and plausible scenarios for Australian agriculture.
Dial into our webinar to:

Gain insights from industry experts driving transformative changes in farming.
Understand the significance of sustainable practices and technological advancements.
Explore strategies for navigating the evolving landscape of Australian agriculture.
Discover opportunities for collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of farming.

Meet your host:

Dr Katherine Wynn, Lead Economist, CSIRO Futures

Meet the panel:

Nick Blong, First Assistant Secretary, Sustainability, Climate and Strategy Division, Dept of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
Dr Jen Taylor, Deputy Director, Agriculture and Food, CSIRO

More information on our speakers is below.

ASA2024: ASA Annual Science Meeting 2024
2024-06-24 - 2024-06-28 | In person and online
The 2024 Astronomical Society of Australia Annual Scientific Meeting will take place from 24th-28th June 2024, in an online-first format plus a local hub day on Wednesday 26th June. This year’s meeting is being jointly hosted by CSIRO and ICRAR.
Since the first ASM in December 1966, the ASA ASM has served as an annual impetus to gather the local astronomical community together and share highlights in astronomy across the diverse fields of research nationally.
This year, the meeting will take place in an online-first format designed to leverage the advantages of the online format for broad accessibility and inclusivity on the national scale. Both programmatically and technologically, we have designed the ASM to serve as a reimagining of online conferences for improved impact and engagement.

Beyond Green: The Cutting Edge of Sustainable Engineering
2024-06-26 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
Join us and celebrate International Women in Engineering Day in our event Beyond Green: The Cutting Edge of Sustainable Engineering which brings together some of Australia’s experts and emerging leaders in sustainability engineering!
The headlines scream about the ever-growing threats to our planet: rising sea levels, extreme weather events, increased waste and dwindling resources. These aren’t distant worries – they’re the reality we face today. But amidst these challenges lies a beacon of hope – Sustainable Engineering. This rapidly evolving field is at the forefront of developing innovative solutions to combat a range of issues, including:

Climate change
Depletion of natural resources like water
Pollution of air, water, and soil
Loss of biodiversity and ecosystem degradation
Waste generation and inefficient resource use
The transition to renewable energy
And many more!

With the world experiencing a period of significant transformation as we develop new technologies to tackle complex issues like these, Sustainable Engineering is an exciting STEM field that needs innovative thinkers and change-makers to help enhance our world.
Join us as we celebrate International Women in Engineering Day with our free webinar titled “Beyond Green: The Cutting Edge of Sustainable Engineering” which brings together some of Australia’s experts and emerging leaders in sustainability engineering, including ATSE Fellow and Distinguished Professor Vivian Tam, Director of the Centre for Infrastructure Engineering at Western Sydney University, to explore how women are enhancing our World with engineering!
This webinar is the latest in our 2024 Shape Your Future series, an educational initiative from the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE), which brings experts in science, technology and engineering into Australian classrooms for a virtual chat with students on the things that matter to them.

Stone & Chalk's Ecosystem Drinks: DeepTech
2024-06-27 17:00 - 19:00 | Stone & Chalk Melbourne Startup Hub, 121 King St, Melbourne
Stone & Chalk’s Ecosystem Drinks is Melbourne’s most sociable startup community event. Its purpose is to provide you with an opportunity to form & deepen meaningful connections into the Victorian Startup Ecosystem.
Stone & Chalk are excited to bring you this special edition of our Ecosystem Drinks: DeepTech Innovation. We invite you to join our networking session where we will bring together founders, investors, mentors & professionals passionate about DeepTech.
DeepTech is centered around the translation of scientific and engineering discoveries into products and services. It includes fields like AI, biotech, robotics, quantum computing, space tech and all other inventions getting commercialised from the lab.
Learn about trends in DeepTech, engage in meaningful discussions, & discover exciting opportunities. Come be a part of this special evening dedicated to fostering collaboration & knowledge sharing, as we collectively shape the future of DeepTech.

In true Ecosystem drinks fashion, there will be plenty of room to socialise with some of the most amazing people in the Victorian startup community.
Join us for the Ecosystem Drinks Event, sponsored by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency. At the forefront of solving the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology, CSIRO is here to support businesses like yours.
CSIRO’s SME Connect team is dedicated to helping Australian start-ups and small, and medium-sized businesses bring their ideas to life through cutting-edge research and development. Through one of their programs, they can connect you to the right research expertise for your business, access to funding support, world-class facilities, training and invaluable networking opportunities within the Australian research sector.
Don’t miss this chance to see how CSIRO can help drive your business growth from concept to execution.

NERD NITE #57
2024-07-09 19:00 - 20:30 | Howler, 7-11 Dawson Street, Brunswick
Three presenters share a topic they are NERDY about while the audience shares a drink.
WOW, what a lineup we have for our next Nerd Nite show for 2024!!
We’ll be kicking it off with Alex who recently spoke at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival about his immunology research, followed by Ben, who will be talking about fossils and how to curate your own fossil exhibition (who doesn’t love fossils right??). Lastly, we have Bee who will be giving us a chaotic crash course in horror music!
Tickets are going to sell out quickly to this one, so get in quick!
Benjamin Francischelli
How to create a fossil exhibition in 20 easy steps.
Description: Creating a public facing exhibition for the whole family can be difficult, especially when you’re working with material that’s more than 5 million years of age. How do you showcase hundreds of fossils from bone-crunching sharks, flesh-gouging Killer-Sperm-whales and giant Pseudo-toothed birds to the public? Luckily for you, we’ve created this easy to replicate list from “Prehistoric Bayside”, now showing at the Bayside Gallery. From diving under the waves and filming footage of your discoveries, to hosting public “fossil themed” events inspired by Antiques Roadshow, “Prehistoric Bayside” is the definitive guide for organising a fossil exhibition.
Bio: At the age of 17, Ben was fired from the supermarket chain formally known as Safeway for being so slow with stacking shelves. Now, Ben is a curator at Bayside City Council and Bayside Gallery, where his exhibition “Prehistoric Bayside” is open on the 29th June. It chronicles the incredible diversity of life that once existed in Melbourne from 5 million years ago, from giant predatory sharks to terrifying killer sperm whales. He leads expeditions across Victoria to uncover these fossils, and would rather be underwater than above it. Ben is also the science and conservation communications advisor to Parks Victoria, where his role involves communicating the incredible biodiversity we have across the 4.1 million hectares of protected land in Victoria, and how climate change is impacting these estates.
Socials:
@BFrancischelli (Twitter/X)
@a_fools_experiment (Instagram)
@afoolsexperiment (YouTube)

Bee Montagner
Recipe for a Sonic Scare… freshly baked by a horror-head
Description: Bee has always had a fascination with horror. Bee is also an artist. However, Bee is a bit of a novice when it comes to making scary art. They are also *certain* they felt someone touch their shoulder as they wrote this blurb. Join Bee as they explore the colliding worlds of horror and music in this (chaotic) crash course in composing for a sonic scare – This talk will look into the core goals of horror composition, and Bee’s approach for keeping an audience at the edge of their seats through found sounds, distorted musical lines, and utilising digital tools to manipulate… hang on… did you see that shadowy figure as well…? Whether you’re a musician or a lover of horror, there’ll be something for you to sink your teeth into!
WARNING: This talk does contain horror themes both in content and performance.
Bio: Ever since they were a child, Bee Montagner always had an utter fascination for the weird, macabre, grotesque and fantastical. Whether it was bingeing episodes of Paranormal Investigations, practicing telekinesis with a piece of foil and a shonky website teaching you how, or learning to create wounds, scars and prosthetics for a Halloween party, Bee has sunk their teeth into horror and does not intend to let go anytime soon. As a musician, actor and composer, Bee continues their love of the ooky and the spooky: Beginning their artistic journey as a classically-trained pianist, Bee began their professional composition journey on the stage for shows such as Systems People (2020), WE ARE AIR (2020) and The Love of the Nightingale (2021). Bee now works fluidly across multiple genres under the stage name Fantomime, from vaporwave and electronica to pop ballads and art music, collaborating with creatives in stage theatre, screen, and video games. Bee is also a pre-service teacher, currently studying a Master of Teaching (Secondary) to continue their love of sparking curiosity in young musicians and dramatists.
Socials:
@fantomime_music (Twitter/X)
@fantomime.music (Instagram)

AgTech solutions for future farming
2024-08-01 | In person and online
This symposium explores the latest advancements and breakthroughs in agricultural technology (AgTech) and how they can pave the way for a more sustainable, efficient, and prosperous future.
Our symposium aims to explore the latest advancements and breakthroughs in agricultural technology (AgTech) and how they can pave the way for a more sustainable, efficient, and prosperous future.
With a growing population, food scarcity and environmental concerns paramount, our agricultural and food systems face unprecedented challenges. However, within these challenges lie opportunities for transformative change driven by technology.
From genetic engineering and data analytics to regenerative farming and robotics, the symposium will delve into the cutting-edge solutions revolutionising the way we grow, harvest, and distribute food. Australia’s leading food and agricultural experts, researchers, and industry leaders will share their insights, experiences, and visions for leveraging AgTech to address pressing issues such as food security, climate change resilience, resource conservation, and rural development.
The dynamic event will feature:
Keynote speeches from Australia’s leading food and agricultural experts, researchers, and industry leaders
Interactive panel discussions and break out sessions
Networking opportunities for attendees to gain valuable knowledge, forge meaningful connections, and brainstorm actionable strategies to propel the AgTech revolution forward.
Whether you’re a farmer, scientist, entrepreneur, policymaker, or simply passionate about shaping the future of agriculture, this Symposium offers a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, and collaborate towards building a more sustainable and equitable food system.
The Symposium will take place simultaneously across two Australian Universities at the forefront of agricultural innovation.
University of New England & Western Sydney University

Ending Plastic Waste Symposium 2024
2024-08-06 - 2024-08-07 | Sofitel Melbourne on Collins Hotel 25 Collins St, Melbourne VIC
Join us for the Ending Plastic Waste Symposium 2024!
You are invited to join us for this dynamic and cutting-edge symposium which will showcase the latest science, technology and innovation to tackle plastic waste, and how these can meet the needs of communities, industry and the environment.
The symposium will be delivered in partnership between CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, RMIT University as host of the ARC TREMS Hub, and the newly announced Solving Plastic Waste CRC.
We will be joined by the Hon Ed Husic MP, Minister for Industry and Science, CSIRO’s Director for Environment Dan Metcalfe, and many other key leaders working to address plastic waste.
At last year’s symposium, hundreds of people came together from research, government and industry to spark conversation and innovation to reduce plastic waste.
With plastic use estimated to double by 2040 and negotiations for a UN treaty for plastic pollution underway, the time is now to tackle plastic waste.
As part of the symposium, we’ll cover:

the life cycle of plastics
plastics in the environment
product packaging and design
recycling and resource recovery
bioderived and compostable plastics
circular economy and system perspectives
international approaches

The Ending Plastic Waste Symposium is being delivered as part of CSIRO’s Ending Plastic Waste Mission which aims to change the way we make, use, recycle and dispose of plastic.
Highlights from Ending Plastic Waste Symposium 2023
Sponsorship packages are also available. Find out more.
We look forward to seeing you in August!

Keep the fire burning: Traditional Knowledge in STEM
2024-08-06 14:00 - 15:00 | Online
Join us as we celebrate NAIDOC week in our webinar Keep the fire burning: Traditional Knowledge in STEM which brings together some of Australia’s experts and emerging leaders in utilising Traditional Knowledge in STEM.

Cicada x Tech23: Australia’s biggest deep tech event
2024-08-07 | Sydney
This long running event spotlights the best Australian science, innovation, and technology, and celebrates the people with the bold and big ambitions behind them.
The event connects visionary founders to a network of investors, leaders and big thinkers – inviting the ecosystem to support game-changing people and businesses that can revolutionise our world.
This year’s event which will take place on Wednesday 7th August in Sydney. We invite leaders from across the deep tech ecosystem and beyond to bring your unique perspectives and energy to help steer the conversations that could define the future of innovation in Australia.

Improving our National Capability
2024-08-12 12:00 - 14:00 | Level 2 Burns Centre Building, 28 National Circuit, Forrest ACT 2603
Presented by the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE)
For Australia to face the challenges of our future, such as inflation, unemployment, and cost of living, it’s essential to grow and sustain our national capability.
Enhancing our national technology capability will enable Australia to support our resource-driven economy and foster high-tech industry growth.
Join Professor Anna Moore FTSE and Professor Elanor Huntington FTSE as they discuss the national capabilities of science and technology in Australia.
🗣 Professor Moore FTSE will examine Australia’s opportunities as we embark on the space race, particularly through expanding satellite capabilities for remote sensing.
The Role of space infrastructure in solving society’s challenges
The past decade has seen a drastic uplift in space activity made possible through reduced access costs combined with a growing commercial sector capable of innovative and agile solutions. Opportunities abound in this new arena – both in space and on the ground. The ANU Institute for Space was formed in 2017 to bring an all of University response to support our growing space sector, ensuring current and future societal challenges ranging from climate adaptability, space sustainability and economic resilience were the driving impacts of the institute. I will briefly introduce current space infrastructure that all Australians rely on today, and then focus on the opportunities where InSpace and Australia can shine in the future
🗣 Professor Huntington FTSE will delve into the rapidly evolving world of AI, highlighting how Australia can leverage it as a national infrastructure to boost productivity and develop new industries. She will also address the potential public sector benefits of adopting these technologies.
A new class of infrastructure – How AI foundation models can support future social and economic activity in Australia
Generative AI – as exemplified by ChatGPT – burst onto our collective imagination in 2023; triggering a flurry of GenAI theatre as well as genuine engagement. It’s part of a seismic shift in the nature and reach of AI. But not because I have an app that will remove the drudgery of writing legal briefs, fail to write good Haiku and give me a recipe for a Mojito. It’s what lies underneath – “foundation models”. These vast, powerful, fine-tuneable and re-usable models are what powers ChatGPT and its cousins. They’ve emerged as a new class of infrastructure. And we already depend upon them. This presentation will unpack that idea and its implications for Australia.
This seminar invites us to consider the role of national capability in science and technology in shaping Australia’s future and assessing how well-prepared we are to navigate the path ahead.

Science, Media and the Law: Lessons from the Kathleen Folbigg Case
2024-08-14 18:00 - 19:30 | Melbourne
Presented by the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE), Royal Society of Victoria and the Australian Academy of Science, with the support of the Inspiring Victoria program.
Presented as a part of National Science Week in 2024

Kathleen Megan Folbigg was arrested in 2001, accused of murdering her four infant children. She was convicted in 2003 and sentenced to 40 years imprisonment with a non-parole period of 25 years.
Scientific and medical research suggesting the daughters might have died of natural causes was rejected by a judicial inquiry in 2019. Subsequent research published in 2020 led ninety eminent Australian scientists and medical professionals (led by the Australian Academy of Science) to petition the NSW Governor to pardon Folbigg. The petition succinctly demonstrated that all four deaths could be explained as the effects of very rare genetic factors. In June 2023, Folbigg was unconditionally pardoned by NSW Governor Margaret Beazley and released from prison, having served 20 of her minimum 25 year sentence. Her convictions were overturned in a subsequent decision by the NSW court of criminal appeal in December 2023.
While ultimately successful, the voice of scientific expertise was difficult to establish in the emotionally-charged circumstances of this challenging case; reopening the inquiry with fresh scientific perspectives relied on the discretion of the Attorney General of New South Wales. Public opinion is overwhelmingly shaped by the Australian media, and sustaining the attention of the political and legal system required a sustained campaign by a team of friends, philanthropists, scientists and legal professionals championing the cause.
Join key members of “Team Folbigg” to understand the barriers they experienced to considering complex genetic science as robust legal evidence in an Australian judicial system, and hear the case for change.

Science in the Outback: The Life of CSIRO at Deniliquin and its People.
2024-08-21 14:30 - 20:00 | Deniliquin RSL
CSIRO Alumni members are welcome to join us for this book launch and reunion:
Date: Wednesday August 21st
Location: Deniliquin RSL: The Mountbatten Room
CSIRO staff reunion: 2.30pm onwards, before the public arrive
Public Launch: 4pm. MC Lindsay Renwick, President Deniliquin Historical Society
Reunion Dinner for ex-Staff and Friends: 6.30pm The Gallery Room
Please contact Allan Wilson directly if you would like to attend: adwilson13@bigpond.com
About the book
Science in the Outback charts the history of CSIRO in Deniliquin, from its establishment in 1945 with the aim of assisting the development of soldier settler farms on the new irrigation lands of the NSW Murray, to its extensive research on the Management of the Rangelands of the Western NSW. It details the many organisational changes that occurred across its 45-year history and its major research findings. It also presents vignettes of more than 80 of the scientific and supporting staff of the 500 or so who worked there over that time.
Science in the Outback tells the story of an important part of Deniliquin’s history. It is widely referenced and includes many original photographs of major events and staff who were employed there.
About the author
Allan Wilson was a Scientist at CSIRO for 27 years, spanning both the Irrigation and Rangeland eras, including 12 years as its OIC. He is thus in a unique position to write this history. In doing so he has supported his wide memory of events with detailed searches of official reports and documents.
Read more about the project and order the book

Climate Smart Engineering
2024-08-22 | 81 North Quay, Brisbane, QLD 4000
Taking charge of the energy transition

This is your opportunity to collaborate with, learn from and become one of the real-world problem solvers who’ll take us to net zero.
Our upcoming Climate Smart Engineering Conference 2024 (CSE24) brings together some of the profession’s best and brightest thought leaders and stakeholders to navigate one of the most critical challenges in tackling climate change: the clean energy transition.
To build a net zero future, we have to get this part right – so this event is a must-attend for engineers of every discipline and sector, including the energy, infrastructure, design, construction, transport, defence, education and government sectors. You’ll find a program designed to inspire innovative solutions, accelerate progress and achieve the energy transition we all need.
What you can expect from CSE24

Hear from experts about the latest thinking, technology and advancements that can increase the impact of projects and strategic plans.
Get immersed in an interactive plenary program of industry leaders discussing and debating current challenges and solutions.
Explore the most pressing key topics, share knowledge and connect with a network of professionals who share a vision for a clean energy world.

Hear from CSIRO

Dr Daniel Roberts, Research Program Director and Dr Stephen Craig, Smart Energy Mission Lead will be representing CSIRO.
🎙️ Dan will be delving into the realm of ‘Emerging technologies and their role in driving the energy transition,’ offering valuable insights into the transformative power of our innovate science.
💡 Meanwhile, Stephen will be shedding light on ‘System design strategies for a sustainable energy transition,’ exploring the intricate framework needed for a seamless shift towards sustainability.
Register here

CSIRO minerals innovation leadership breakfast: the role of innovation in Australia's mid-stream processing industry
2024-08-27 06:30 - 20:30 | Sky Room, Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre
We are delighted to invite you to an exclusive CSIRO minerals innovation leadership breakfast in the sidelines of the AusIMM Critical Minerals Conference.
More information
Hear an expert panel discuss the role of innovation in Australia’s critical minerals mid-stream processing industry.
Panellists:

Mr Andrew Napier, General Manager Technology Development, Lithium Australia
Ms Rowena Smith, Managing Director & CEO, Australian Strategic Materials (ASM)
Dr Karin Soldenhoff, Principal Consultant, ANSTO
Mr Andrew Bell, Deputy Director, Resources Technology & Critical Minerals Trailblazer, Curtin University

This discussion follows the release of CSIRO’s latest report, From minerals to materials: Assessment of Australia’s critical minerals mid-stream processing capabilities, a world-first assessment showcasing Australian innovators moving up the value-chain. The report highlights opportunities to embrace and invest in innovation and collaborate internationally on technology development and deployment.
Alongside policy and commercial enablers, innovation is a key tool to support cost-competitive and sustainable production of materials in Australia.
So, what are the next steps needed to translate Australia’s world-leading R&D capabilities into a large scale mid-stream processing industry? Join the discussion to find out.

Extreme climate explained – the triple La Niña and extremely wet conditions 2020-2022
2024-08-27 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
Australia experienced its second-wettest spring on record in 2022. Across eastern parts of the country, record-breaking rainfall and saturated soils led to widespread flooding.
Did climate change influence the triple La Niña and extremely wet conditions in 2020-2022? What’s the likelihood of similar events happening in the future?
Join researchers from the NESP Climate Systems Hub Extreme events explained and Extreme climate: dry, wet, hot-and-dry projects to hear about their work to support evidence-based climate adaption and decision-making.
This event is hosted by the NESP Climate Systems Hub. You can join the hub mailing list to hear more from the hub.

Standards for the global bioeconomy – a briefing from the international Task Force
2024-08-27 16:00 - 17:00 | Online
Experts from Imperial College London present ten recommendations for standards and metrics to accelerate the global bioeconomy.
In this webcast, Professor Paul Freemont presents the findings of the recent report, Engineering Biology Metrics and Technical Standards for the Global Bioeconomy.
Global standards and metrics have the power to accelerate the development and commercialisation of new technologies. But there are currently very few specific and appropriate to the field of engineering biology.
An international Task Force, led by Professor Freemont, was convened to identify key areas where standards and metrics would accelerate the growth of the global bioeconomy.
In this online panel event – moderated by Dr Robert Speight, Director of our Advanced Engineering Biology Future Science Platform – we’ll hear the Task Force’s ten key recommendations. Dialling in from Imperial College London, Professor Freemont – alongside Juliette Malley, Project Manager for the Task Force – will discuss the findings and their implications for engineering biology research and the bioeconomy in Australia and around the world.
From the standardisation of data formats to the improvement of regulatory clarity, the panellists will share how the sector stands to gain from appropriate standards and applied metrology.

India Australia RISE Accelerator – Online Information and Q&A Session
2024-08-28 15:30 - 16:30 | Online
The India Australia Rapid Innovation and Startup Expansion (RISE) Accelerator provides support to Indian and Australian startups and small-to-medium sized enterprises (SMEs) working on cutting-edge technology, and are considering expansion between both countries.
Applications for our Climate Smart Agritech round are now open. Startups and SMEs with innovative, scalable and deployable agritech solutions that can support national economies, farmer livelihoods and food security, amid climate and resource challenges, are encouraged to apply.
Join us for a live online information session to explore:

the benefits of participating in the nine-month program
challenge statements and program phases
eligibility criteria and application tips
Q&A

#58 Nerd Nite
2024-09-03 19:00 - 21:00 | Howler, 7-11 Dawson Street, Brunswick
Nerd Nite 58 is just around the corner! Nonhumans, viruses and brain evolution will be discussed by our 3 fabulous speakers: Paul, Jay and Jenna. Be there. Be square.
Tuesday 3rd September
Howler (7-11 Dawson Street, Brunswick)
Doors: 7 pm
Show: 7:30 pm
Tickets: $15 + BF – Available now!!!

Paul Bowell
The Power of Nonhumans, Space Invaders and Taylor Swift
Description: Are you brave enough to take the red pill and find out the power of nonhumans? Social constructions: taken-for-granted ways of thinking and doing, like gender, are nonhuman objects that impact people—often limiting access and opportunity. “Are you ready for it? Let the games begin!” This talk will stress that the over-the-top media scrutiny and discourses aimed at Taylor Swift illustrate the power of nonhuman things like gender constructions. Through these nonhuman powers, Swift is positioned as a space invader in the music and entertainment industry. Understanding the power of nonhuman things is the first step in changing them. Reshaping gendered beliefs means young girls are not questioned if they want to play sports or be engineers. The alternative is that “you’re on your own, kid”!
Bio: A lot has changed for Paul. Starting as a chef running kitchens across Australia, Paul would have moments in this role asking himself questions like: “What motivates that person to act like that?” Unbeknownst to Paul, he was activating his sociological imagination. Fast forward 15 years, Paul is a Doctor of Sociology. Paul is passionate about understanding technology’s unintended impacts on people. Paul is also an avid advocate for supporting diversity and inclusion in sport. Bringing these two passions together, Paul has spent time with women Australian Rules footballers, understanding how they experience using smartwatches to track their exercise.
Socials: @PaulGB77 (Twitter/X)
Jay Laws
Fighting viruses with fat????
Description: Jay has always been passionate about immunology, and understanding how we can manipulate our immune response to destroy viruses at their own game. Throughout his PhD, he has discovered that teeny tiny fatty soldiers in our cells might do just this, providing additional immunity for our cells! By helping these cellular fatty soldiers we can keep healthy(ish) and keep sick days to a minimum.
Bio: Working at Best and Less since he was 17 has taught Jay one thing: that people are severely misinformed when it comes to viral infection. From injecting bleach to gargling charcoal, there are more absurd ‘treatments’ for viral infections than you can shake a T cell at. To tackle this toxic combination of miscommunication and snake oil, Jay has committed the last 4 years of his life to a PhD picking apart how the immune system works. With the end of his PhD now in sight, hopefully, that means a new job developing antiviral drugs, and the end to his illustrious career at Best & Less.
Socials: @JayLaws15 (Twitter/X)

ALA Webinar: Exploring next-gen biodiversity detection technologies
2024-09-04 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
Access to high-quality biodiversity data is more essential than ever in understanding and responding to changes in our natural environment. This information is used for informing planning, policy and decision-making and delivering research. Through the Atlas of Living Australia, more than 135 million species occurrence records are available as open data, with rich information accompanying these records such as images, location, spatial, genetic and related data.
By enhancing traditional methods to monitor species with novel technologies, a more comprehensive view of Australia’s biodiversity can be developed. To celebrate Biodiversity Month in September, hear from three speakers discuss their use of ecoacoustics, eDNA and camera trapping as innovative methods to enhance our ability to detect and monitor biodiversity in Australia.
This event will be recorded, with the recording made available through ALA channels in the week following the event.
The ALA receives support from the Australian Government through the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) and is hosted by CSIRO.
For further information, reach out to communications@ala.org.au.

AMSA & NZMSS 2024 Conference: Navigating Uncertainty for a Future Sustainable Ocean
2024-09-15 - 2024-09-20 | Nipaluna, Hobart, Tasmania
Please join us for the joint AMSA & NZMSS 2024 Conference, where marine scientists and managers from across Australia, New Zealand, and the Indo-Pacific will come together to advance our understanding of the region’s unique marine environment during a period of uncertainty.
The ‘Navigating Uncertainty for a Future Sustainable Ocean’ theme is aimed at bringing scientists and managers together to discuss the latest research that can guide society towards a future sustainable ocean. The next 12 months are predicted to be the warmest on record and with so many climate records being broken, there is significant uncertainty in what this means for the environment, economy, culture, and society. As a scientific community we can help managers, policy makers, and politicians by providing high quality science and advice on what needs to be done.
CSIRO will be delivering several presentations about our research and infrastructure and will be manning a booth at the conference.

IWOMP & EuroMPI 2024
2024-09-23 - 2024-09-27 | Pawsey Supercomputing Centre, 1 Bryce Avenue, Kensington WA Australia
Two top-ranked international conferences related to the two most iconic tools for parallel programming in High Performance Computing (OpenMP and MPI) will occur together in a co-located format in Perth, Australia, at the Pawsey Supercomputing Centre during the week of September 23-27.
These two conferences (IWOMP and EuroMPI 2024) have historically attracted prominent researchers and developers of parallel tools from the leading supercomputing centers around the world.

Australian Sea Country conference 2024
2024-09-24 - 2024-09-26 | Darwin Convention Centre
The sea has spoken

Amplifying First Nation voices
The primary aim of the Conference is to develop strategies for enhancing First Nations involvement in matters concerning the protection and utilisation of sea country. Through a series of presentations, discussions, and collaborative sessions, our goal is to deepen the understanding of First Nations’ perspectives, promote the recognition of First Nations rights in environmental contexts, and bolster the advancement of First Nations-led initiatives.
Guiding positive change
While Australia currently has national peak bodies representing the seafood industry, recreational fishers, and environmental interests in Australian sea country, there is currently no representation for First Nations in Australia. This Conference aims to potentially lay the groundwork for establishing a First Nations Peak Body that represents interests in Australian sea country-related matters. In doing so, it is intended that this conference provides guidance for consistency in recognition of Native Title rights between States/Territory/Federal governments.
Challenging today to create tomorrow
By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, we aspire to contribute to a future where First Nations governance models, traditional knowledge, and leadership are central to shaping Australia’s marine environment.
