6G Security and Privacy Seminar
2025-03-20 09:30 - 10:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Online
Thomas W. Rondeau, Ph.D.
Principal Director for the FutureG Office
Office of the Deputy Chief Technology Officer (Science and Technology),
Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering
Biography
Dr. Tom Rondeau is the Principal Director for the FutureG Office for the US Department of Defense, serving in the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD(R&E)). In this role, Dr. Rondeau is responsible for the research, funding, and execution of programs to advance warfighting capabilities using future-generation wireless technologies.
Before assuming his role as Principal Director of the FutureG Office, Dr. Rondeau spent more than six years as a Defense Advanced Research Project Agency (DARPA) program manager, where he led efforts that challenged and advanced studies in a variety of warfighting domains, earning him the Distinguished Public Service Medal.
Prior to joining DARPA, Dr. Rondeau was the Project Lead for the GNU Radio project, consulted on wireless communications problem sets, and worked as a visiting researcher with the University of Pennsylvania and as an Adjunct with the IDA Center for Communications Research in Princeton, NJ.
Dr. Rondeau holds a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from Virginia Tech, where his dissertation won the Council of Graduate Schools’ 2007 Outstanding Dissertation Award in math, science, and engineering.

SilverEye Workshop on Hyperspectral Imaging for Agriculture
2025-03-20 11:30 - 13:30 | Online
We would like to hear your insights on the next generation of hyperspectral imagers for agricultural monitoring, specifically designed to address the complex and unique requirements of Australian and New Zealand ecosystems. Join us for an engaging discussion with members of the Australian and New Zealand science and agricultural communities.
About SilverEye & the Workshop
Funded by SmartSat CRC and the New Zealand Space Agency, CSIRO and the University of Auckland are collaborating to develop SilverEye — a dedicated agricultural satellite mission designed to enhance farming practices across the region.
To ensure this capability aligns with industry needs, we are seeking stakeholder input to guide the development of real-world, actionable satellite data.
Why SilverEye?
Current satellite technologies for agricultural monitoring face challenges such as delayed data delivery and insufficient resolution, limiting their effectiveness for real-time farm management. SilverEye aims to revolutionise crop and environmental monitoring by providing timely, high-quality data that better supports growers and the broader agricultural sector.
CSIRO and the University of Auckland have a strong track record in satellite optical design, with multiple publications and co-designed instruments, including the first Australian-designed and manufactured hyperspectral imager, launched in 2023. A 2023 study by SmartSat CRC, CSIRO, and the Grains Research & Development Corporation (Recommendations Towards a Future Hyperspectral Sensor for Crop and Pasture Quality, No. P3.25) identified key gaps in current satellite capabilities for agriculture. SilverEye is designed to bridge these gaps.
Workshop Purpose & Call for Participants
To ensure SilverEye meets real-world industry needs, we are hosting this workshop to engage with stakeholders and end-users. We aim to gather insights from key representatives in the agricultural sector to help define the satellite’s requirements and ensure its capabilities align with industry priorities.
We would greatly appreciate your participation and encourage you to forward this invitation to colleagues who may also be interested. Key discussion topics will include:

Current challenges in agricultural monitoring
Potential applications of improved satellite data
Industry requirements for dedicated satellite-acquired data

Our goal is to design a satellite that is not only technically feasible but also practical, manufacturable, and impactful for agriculture in the southern hemisphere. Through collaboration with industry and SmartSat CRC, we aim to build an international consortium to deliver a fit-for-purpose, locally manufactured satellite.
We value your perspective and invite you to join this important discussion.
Looking forward to seeing you online.

Quantum Leap - Science and Tech careers on the cutting edge
2025-03-21 11:30 - 12:30 | Online
Join us for “Quantum Leap – Science and Tech careers on the cutting edge”, a free webinar where we will celebrate the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology with Australia’s former Chief Scientist Dr Cathy Foley AO FTSE.
In STELR’s first Shape Your Future webinar of 2025, we will explore the exciting and rapidly evolving world of quantum science and technology, and help students and young professionals to learn about the groundbreaking opportunities that lie at the intersection of physics, engineering and computing. A panel of expert and engaging speakers will share insights about their own career journeys in this revolutionary field, and explore the potential of quantum innovations to shape industries ranging from healthcare to cybersecurity.
Whether you’re interested in becoming a quantum physicist, an engineer or a tech entrepreneur, this webinar will provide valuable guidance on how to navigate the rapidly expanding world of quantum careers.
This webinar is the first in our 2025 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 live into Australian classrooms for a virtual chat with students on career pathways in STEM.

ATSE: AgTech solutions for future farming
2025-04-02 | University of New England (Armidale) and Western Sydney University (Parramatta)
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 way we grow food.
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 technologies and data analytics to people engineering AgTech 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, agricultural emissions, 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 Australian AgriTech displays
Networking opportunities for attendees to gain valuable knowledge, forge meaningful connections and brainstorm actionable strategies to propel the AgTech revolution forward.
Exposure to Australia’s exciting AgTech innovations
Whether you’re a farmer, scientist, entrepreneur, policymaker, or are 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 on 2 April 2025 will be complimented by a Smart Farm visits in Armidale on 1 April and in Parramatta on 3 April, offering attendees the opportunity to visit university facilities and engage in additional networking opportunities.
The Symposium will take place simultaneously across two Australian Universities at the forefront of agricultural
innovation, the University of New England, Armidale & Western Sydney University, Parramatta.

AgTech solutions for future farming
2025-04-02 | University of New England (Armidale) and Western Sydney University (Parramatta)
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 way we grow food.
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.​

Nerd Nite, Melbourne #62
2025-04-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Howler, 7-11 Dawson Street, Brunswick
3 presenters share a topic they are NERDY about while the audience shares a drink.
Nerd Nite’s next show is on April 8th, and boy do we have a treat for you!! From the nostalgia of VHS, to the future of computing and the power of public speaking—this Nerd Nite has it all! Dr. Shane will take us inside the VCR, exploring why VHS was more than just a format—it was a cultural phenomenon. Dr. Mitko will dive into the (sort of) success of his quantum research, where smashing light and matter together could help keep our devices cool. And if public speaking makes you sweat more than your overheating laptop, Trang is here to show you how to own the stage with confidence and charisma!
Grab a beer, grab some friends and join us at Howler!!
Be there. Be Square
Shane Huntington
The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of VHS
Description: VHS was a technological marvel that gave us the choice to watch what we wanted, when we wanted, in the comfort of our homes, for the first time in history. Video libraries – yes libraries, not stores – were places of connection and dreams. The video store employee (that’s me!) dished out desires on an overnight basis. I remain obsessed with VHS – and I’m going to show you all why! We are going inside the video cassette recorder together….so prepare to cancel your streaming services.
Bio: Dr Shane is a giant nerd. A nerd’s nerd. This will be his third Nerd Nite talk and they are getting nerdier. He has a PhD in physics but more importantly for this talk is the fact that he worked for a decade in a video library. He also does some 3RRR radio program – but that’s not relevant.
Bluesky :drshanerrr.bsky.social
X: @DrShaneRRR
Mitko Oldfield
Feeling Moore-ish? We’re going light & byte-sized
Description: Moore’s Law (An Eponymous Law that you’ll become upsettingly familiar with) is failing, or dead, or not dead, depending on who you ask. My research at my Centre of Excellence, FLEET (rip 2024) aimed to tackle this problem. I’ll be talking about how I gave it a crack by smacking light and matter together, and why that could lead to your phones and laptop no longer heating up.
Bio: Mitko is a Doctor of Quantum Physics, an avid and peppy communicator, and, unfortunately, British. His PhD focused on creating new technology that doesn’t heat up when used by combining light and matter. It worked, sort of. After receiving his doctorate, he moved away from research to pursue his true passion: making coffee for near-minimum wage (something something terrible job market, something something the economy is in shambles).
Trang Nova
Glossophobia Who? Making public speaking fun & fab
Description: Did you know that up to 93% of your influence comes from HOW you speak, not WHAT you say? (Especially when what we say doesn’t match how we say it) This means you could be the most brilliant or well-intentioned person, but you’ll only ever be perceived at the level of your ability to speak confidently and clearly. And if you struggle to communicate your ideas to the world, your creations will remain only in your imagination and your influence will fall short. Your voice is where it begins!
Bio: Trang Nova is a speaker and speaking coach helping you to speak with confident authority so you can fulfil your potential and be recognised as a visible leader in and out of your work. Through her journey from being a withdrawn introvert to still being one – just one who now speaks for a living – Trang wants to show you that speaking is a skill anyone can master, not just those to whom it comes naturally. And when she’s not on stage or coaching others, you’ll probably find her stuffing her face with ice cream, giving her dogs forced cuddles, or on her motorbike flying down a road somewhere!
Instagram: @Trang_Nova
Website: https://trangnova.com/

CSIRO Conversations: Fork in the road – time to design the food system we want
2025-05-13 08:00 - 17:00 | Online
Join us as we digest and debate the new report – Towards a state of the food system for Australia.
Meet your host:

Larelle McMillan – CSIRO Research Lead Sustainability

Meet the panel:

Rohan Nelson – CSIRO Scientist Food System Horizons and report co-author
Lilly Lim-Camacho – CSIRO Principal Research Scientist and report co-author
Bob Barlow – CSIRO Food Research lead

Australia’s food system is in urgent need of attention. We feed 100 million people globally, and yet access to healthy food remains a major issue for many Australians. This new report explores how we can work towards a future food system that delivers nutritional security for all, that is economically viable, socially just and environmentally sustainable.
In this new report CSIRO has explored our currently limited view of the food system and what we can do differently to meet our food system goals. The report uses science to explain the challenges and opportunities and how we can better connect the different elements. It’s a call to action to create the food system we want for the future.
The panel, moderated by Larelle McMillan, will explore the findings of the report and the next steps.
Dial into our webinar to:

gain valuable insights from the report authors and industry experts from the food sector
explore the different elements of the food system and how those elements need to work together
understand the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead for our food system.

You are welcome to forward this invitation to interested colleagues and your networks.

Bats and climate change and their role in urban ecology
2025-05-13 14:00 - 15:00 | Online
Join us for the fifth webinar of the One Health Wonders series at 2-3pm AEST on Tuesday 13 May 2025. Brought to you by CSIRO and Interim CDC to showcase One Health and the critical relationship between human, animal and ecosystem health.
The webinar will feature presentations from speakers followed by a panel discussion exploring bats and climate change and their role in urban ecology.
The fifth webinar will feature the following speakers and topics:

Dr Michelle Baker (The rich diversity of bats, their importance in the ecosystem and lessons for human health)
Eric Vanderduys (Bats, One Health and their role in urban ecology)
Dr Alison Peel (The ecology of One Health approaches of bat viral spillover)
Prof Justin Welbergen (Emerging threats to flying-foxes – implications from a One Health perspective)

Please note: this webinar will be recorded.
If you would like to attend the One Health Wonders webinar, please register by clicking the ‘Register now’ button.
Please share with your network(s) as appropriate and we look forward to having you attend the event!

Gap Blitz Program Showcase
2025-05-13 17:00 - 19:00 | Business & Event Centre, Level 6, 8 Chifley Square
CSIRO’s GAP BLITZ Program aims to help founders close the gap in startup business performance and prepare them for growth through highly targeted insights, coaching and program support. During the 12 week program, 8 startups dove deep into the heart of their business and developed a personalised plan to push through barriers to growth.
On Tuesday 13 May 2025, these teams will tell the story of their journey; where they started, where the journey took them, what were the unexpected findings, and their plans for what’s next.
The Showcase will be held at the Business & Event Centre – located in the heart of the Sydney CBD at Level 6, 8 Chifley Square (next door to 52 Martin Place).
Register now to join the conversation.

6G Security and Privacy Seminar - Threat landscape and potential solutions in 6G
2025-05-15 16:00 - 17:00 | Online
Join Prof Mika and his team to discuss “Threat landscape and potential solutions in 6G”, including:

Robust Federated Learning for Resilient Distributed Networking
Advanced Trustless Architecture for Efficient Service Management in Next-Generation Mobile Networks

Professor Mika Yliantilla (Faculty of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering (ITEE), University of Oulu, Finland; https://www.oulu.fi/en/researchers/mika-ylianttila).

Building Industry Collaborations for Research Impact
2025-05-20 08:30 - 12:30
Are you an EMCR looking to strengthen your industry partnerships and maximise the real-world impact of your research?
Join us for a free interactive training workshop, where you’ll gain the skills and strategies needed to successfully engage with industry and secure funding.
The event will be opened by Emeritus Professor Helene Marsh AO FAA FTSE, followed by two invited talks:

Professor Christina Twomey FAHA FASSA, Chief Research Officer at the Australian Research Council (ARC), will discuss the proposed changes to the ARC’s national funding program and how they will support EMCRs in building industry collaborations.
Dr Luke Deacon, Senior Facilitator of the Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) Program, will discuss a regional funding scheme and strategies for fostering industry partnerships in smaller regional universities.

Following the talks, Dr Tamar Sztal from The GrantEd Group will facilitate a three-hour interactive workshop, which will focus on training EMCRs for industry grant writing and proposal development.
A networking lunch session will conclude the workshop.

Women in STEMM Champions of Change
2025-05-27 11:30 - 13:30 | South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) Auditorium, North Terrace, Adelaide
This free event will feature a panel discussion with four distinguished speakers, each sharing insights about their career paths and their roles as Champions of Change in creating inclusive and supportive environments for women in STEMM. Following the presentations, there will be an open Q&A session where the audience can engage in a discussion with the panel speakers on how everyone can contribute to advancing gender equity in STEMM and become advocates for positive change.

ON Accelerate 9 Showcase
2025-06-05 15:30 - 19:00 | Metropolis Events 3 Southbank Boulevard Melbourne, VIC 3006
The Future of Deep Tech is here
The journey began in November 2024 with Bootcamp, where Australia’s brightest DeepTech innovators took their first steps toward commercialisation.
Following a highly competitive selection process, 11 standout teams advanced to Immersion Week and participated in the ON Core event in February 2025.
Over a period of three months, they will undergo an intensive program combining in-person and online learning, guided by industry experts and mentors.
On Thursday, 5 June 2025, we will celebrate the growth and achievements of these pioneering research-driven startups as they take the stage at the ON Accelerate 9 Showcase in Melbourne—presenting their ventures to investors, industry leaders, and the broader innovation ecosystem.
Don’t miss your chance to support the future of Australian innovation— register to attend the ON Accelerate 9 Showcase.

3DCeraFlex, from James Cook University, has developed patented technology for 3D printing flexible ceramic solutions, revolutionising high-temperature, defence, and energy applications. Currently working with AIMS to develop ceramic solutions for reef collaboration.
Ability Optics, an Australian National University spin out, focused on accelerating drug development. It has patented imaging hardware that enables faster and more cost-effective cell and tissue microscopy techniques, quickening the time-to-market for new personalised medicines.
Amorfoil, from CSIRO developed a patented planar flow casting process to create cost-competitive, efficient materials for grid distribution and electric vehicles.
Elemental Therapeutics, from The University of Melbourne, is restoring the efficacy of antibiotics against drug-resistant infections through the development of PBT2, a small molecule therapeutic for community-acquired bacterial pneumonia.
Enhanced Analgesics, from the University of Sydney, is addressing the global chronic pain crisis by developing a non-opioid drug that provides 24-28 hours of effective pain relief, offering a sustainable breakthrough alternative for millions suffering.
Epiblox, from the University of South Australia, is developing a breakthrough treatment for severe childhood epilepsy. Its lead drug candidate holds life-changing potential and strong commercial viability.
Facet Amtech, an SME licensing technology from the University of Newcastle, is revolutionising ammonia production with a breakthrough technology that improves energy efficiency, reducing the need for carbon-intensive natural gas.
I-VADE, from Edith Cowan University and in partnership with Alpha Immersion, is addressing rising violence in healthcare with an innovative VR-based aggression de-escalation training solution, improving overall staff and patient care.
ProSeek Bio, a startup commercialising technology from QIMR Berghofer, is closing the gender health gap with next-gen diagnostics, starting with ovarian cancer blood tests, aiming to revolutionise ovarian cancer diagnosis for women worldwide.
Topicure, from RMIT University, is developing gel-based formulations to improve the delivery of active compounds through the skin, reducing side effects and increasing compliance for patients.
Viortec, an SME spun out of the Australian National University, is developing innovative devices for hip and knee replacement surgeries, enhancing surgical precision, supporting surgeons and improving patient outcomes.

AI in science: the promise, perils and path forward – AI and our environment
2025-06-10 17:30 - 19:00 | The Shine Dome, 15 Gordon Street, Acton ACT
Did you know that asking ChatGPT a question uses ten times more energy than a simple Google search?
AI can have a big environmental footprint – but it can also be a powerful tool to help us protect and restore the natural world.
Join us to explore these two sides of AI’s impact on our environment with two experts working at the cutting edge:

As co-founder and CEO at Xylo Systems, Camille Goldstone-Henry’s groundbreaking intelligence platform is demystifying biodiversity data to turbocharge threatened species management, and to help businesses make nature-positive decisions.
Associate Professor Chang Xu is harnessing Green AI to build next-generation AI systems that are more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Come along to learn more about the promise and perils of AI for the environment, and get inspired by innovators making a difference for nature with technology.

Nerd Nite #63
2025-06-11 19:00 - 20:00 | Howler, 7-11 Dawson Street, Brunswick
Nerd Nite’s next show is on June 11th and this Nerd Nite is going to be an absolute banger!! From airborne allergens to backyard bullies and the cutting edge of pollen science—this Nerd Nite has it all! (Soon to be Dr) Kira Hughes will reveal how weighing the air (yes, really) could help us monitor pollen in real time and save lives during thunderstorm asthma events. Dr Jacinta Humphrey will take us into the surprisingly dramatic world of suburban bird politics, where the noisy miner is muscling out our feathered friends. And Sex with Lex is back! Talking about all things sex, intimacy and kink! Grab a beer, grab some friends, and join us at Howler!
Kira Hughes
Weighing the Air to Fight Asthma
Description: Australia has a pollen problem, and if you suffer from hay fever and/or asthma (like me), you’re probably sick of pollen too. Not only does it trigger frustrating symptoms like itchy eyes and runny noses, but it’s behind deadly thunderstorm asthma events that plague the sky (and the morning news) every time spring rolls around. While we can’t get rid of pollen forever, we can get better at monitoring it by simply weighing the air…yes I’m not kidding. Hear me talk about my innovative device that combines immunology, chemistry, and a scale to create the world’s first real-time pollen sensor.
Bio: Kira has done a bit of everything. When she wasn’t crying in the lab during her PhD, you’d find her teaching biomed students to not set themselves on fire, speaking at high schools about how cool science is, coordinating marketing campaigns for research institutes, coaching researchers on how to talk good, performing silly jokes at comedy festivals, or even while scrolling through your social feed. We don’t even remember inviting her to Nerd Nite…
Socials:
Youtube, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), Bluesky: @KiraETSA
Instagram: @kira.etsa
Jacinta Humphrey
The new bully on the block
Description: You’ve heard their calls while hanging out the washing. You’ve seen them on your morning dog walk. Maybe you’ve even been swooped yourself. I’m talking, of course, about the new bully on the block – the noisy miner. Loud, bossy and fiercely territorial, noisy miners are gradually taking over our suburbs and pushing the smaller, more timid birds out. Come along to discover the secret to the noisy miner’s success, learn how you can help stop the hostile takeover, and uncover the true villain in this story (spoiler alert: it’s not who you think!).
Bio: Jacinta was one of those kids that grew up OBSESSED with animals. You know, the ones who watched The Lion King 600 times and tried to communicate telepathically with dogs – that kind of obsessed. She may have moved on from canine telepathy, but Jacinta still loves animals. Today, she works as an Urban Ecologist and spends her time thinking about how to make our cities and suburbs better for native wildlife.
Socials:
Instagram: @jacintahumphrey
Bluesky: @jacintahumphrey.bsky.social
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacinta-humphrey-urban-ecologist/
Lex Nyree
Kink 101: Power, Play & Pleasure
Description: Talking all things kink, we will explore the wonderful world of kink including power dynamics, pleasure & consensual play.
Bio: Lex is a sex and kink educator based in Naarm. With a background in youth and social work, she’s passionate about reducing stigma and normalising the more taboo sides of sexuality—especially kink. Currently completing her Master of Sexology, Lex focuses on inclusive, consent-forward sex education that’s accessible to everyone. Outside of study, she collaborates online with fellow sexologists and volunteers at local events to provide free, affirming education in sex-positive spaces.
Instagram: @sexwithlexmelb

Data61 Cybersecurity Seminar - The Disinformation Crisis in the Age of GenAI and Deepfakes
2025-07-02 09:30 - 11:00 | Online
Speaker:
Prof. Hafiz Malik is a Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Michigan–Dearborn, USA
https://umdearborn.edu/people-um-dearborn/hafiz-malik
Abstract:
The rapid advances in generative AI (GenAI) have ushered in an era of ultrarealistic synthetic media generation, also known as deepfakes — digitally synthesised images, audio, and video — serving as powerful drivers of widespread disinformation campaigns and erosion of public trust in the information ecosystem. This talk will examine the growing disinformation crisis fueled by the ease of creating deceptively realistic deepfakes. This talk will explore the latest trends in deepfake generation technology, highlighting how advances in audio, video, and image synthesis are being leveraged to produce increasingly convincing, deceptive content, fabricate personas, and coordinate influence operations on social media. These activities erode public trust in information systems, particularly during critical events such as elections, and contribute to societal division. Furthermore, the talk will address the significant societal, political, and geopolitical implications of deepfakes. These include privacy violations, reputational harm, and the potential to destabilize democratic processes and international relations. Deepfake technology can be used to spread misinformation that influences public opinion or incites conflict between nations, adding a new layer of complexity to global politics.
This talk will provide a comprehensive overview of current interventions, focusing on cutting-edge deepfake detection technologies, including commercial, freeware, and open-source tools. Finally, we will introduce our robust framework, FakeXpose, designed to detect and debunk deepfakes of public figures in real-time, aiming to restore trust and resilience within the information landscape while addressing the challenges posed by this rapidly evolving technology.
Bio:
Hafiz Malik is a Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Michigan–Dearborn. His research in the areas of deepfakes, automotive cybersecurity, cyber-physical system security, sensor security, multimedia forensics, steganography and steganalysis, information hiding, pattern recognition, and information fusion is supported by the National Science Foundation, the National Academies, Google, Ford Motor Company, Metapyxl Inc., and Marelli Inc.
Dr. Malik has received numerous awards, including the UM-Dearborn Chancellor’s Inclusive Excellence Fellows 2022, the UM-Dearborn 2022 Distinguished Research Award, and the College of Engineering and Computer Science 2020 Excellence in Research Award. He has published over 180 articles in leading peer-reviewed journals, conferences, and workshops and is a (co-)inventor of 22 patents.
He is the founder and CTO of Media Shield Inc., a cutting-edge platform for deepfake detection. Additionally, he is a founding member and Chief Operating Officer of the Global Foundation for Cyber Studies and Research, a director and founding member of the Cybersecurity Center for Research, Education, and Outreach at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, and a key member of the leadership circle for the Dearborn Artificial Intelligence Research Center at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Dr. Malik also served on the Scientific and Industrial Advisory Board of the National Center of Cyber Security Pakistan from 2018 – 2024 and has been actively involved with the MCity Working Group on Cybersecurity since 2015.

7th FRDC Australasian Scientific Conference on Aquatic Animal Health & Biosecurity - Technology for Improved Production and Health
2025-07-08 - 2025-07-11 | Pullman Reef Hotel Casino 35-41 Wharf Street, Cairns QLD
The Seventh Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) Australasian Scientific Conference on Aquatic Animal Health and Biosecurity will be held at the Pullman Reef Hotel, Cairns, starting at 9:00am on Tuesday 8 July and closing at midday on Friday 11 July 2025. The conference dinner will be held on Thursday 10 July 2025.
Sponsored by the FRDC, delivered through the Aquatic Animal Health and Biosecurity Coordination Program (AAHBCP), and organised by CSIRO, the conference is the premier event for the aquatic animal health community in Australia, bringing together researchers, industry, government, and students. Emerging researchers in the field are encouraged to present their work, with a prize for the best PhD student presentation. The side conversations that occur at this event are also an invaluable opportunity to foster collaboration.
This year the theme of the conference is “Technology for Improved Production and Health”. The proposed conference program will depend on the range of topics received as abstracts and all topics relating to aquatic animal health and biosecurity are welcome.

Safe Trade showcase: Strengthening the science and tools that underpin market access
2025-07-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
A webinar and forum for plant industry and biosecurity stakeholders
Join us for the 2025 Safe Trade Showcase, a forum to share research and innovation aimed at transforming how we assess and manage plant biosecurity risks in trade.
Safe Trade is a collaborative initiative supported by Hort Innovation, bringing together CSIRO, Australian Commonwealth and State Governments, the Northern Territory Government and the horticulture industry. Together we are developing innovative scientific methods, models and tools to support evidence-based risk assessment and to better harness commercial practices that reduce phytosanitary risks.
The webinar will feature:

Progress updates on our co-developed tools and decision-support models, including the Menu of Measures Resource and Pest Risk Analysis Online
New national guidelines to enable market access for sites with low pest prevalence
Innovative technologies, including our analysis of optical grading and other commercial practices to reduce phytosanitary risks
Partner insights on how this collaboration is modernising risk assessment and management for safer trade in Australia

Take a tour of RV Investigator in Hobart
2025-07-25 14:00 - 18:00 | CSIRO Marine Laboratories, Castray Esplanade Battery Point (Hobart), Tas
CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, invites you to step aboard Australia’s advanced ocean research vessel, RV Investigator, while it’s in Hobart between research voyages.
This 94-metre super science ship is packed with state-of-the-art equipment to enable vital ocean and atmospheric research for Australia. RV Investigator is a national workhorse for science and can travel over 10,000 nautical miles on a single voyage, carrying up to 60 scientists, technicians and crew on incredible voyages of exploration and discovery. The vessel delivers geoscience, atmospheric, biological, oceanographic and underwater cultural heritage research from the equator to the Antarctic ice-edge.
RV Investigator is part of the Marine National Facility, national collaborative research infrastructure funded by the Australian Government through the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy, and operated by CSIRO on behalf of the nation.
Activities
Take this rare opportunity to step onboard and tour RV Investigator. Explore above and below decks to discover the latest in marine science equipment and technology. Speak with our expert researchers, technicians and crew about their unique work conducting science at sea.
Details
Tours will be self-guided at your own pace and take approximately 45 minutes. Visitors will depart in 15-minute slots and must be pre-booked. Tours are free, but places are strictly limited.
You will be required to show your ticket (digital or paper copy) to board the vessel.

2025 Kenneth Myer Lecture, Melbourne: Professor Brett Sutton AO
2025-08-05 18:30 - 20:30 | The Pavilion, Arts Centre Melbourne
Join us for the 2025 Kenneth Myer Lecture in Melbourne, presented by Professor Brett Sutton AO.

The world is increasingly faced with what might be termed existential threats – climate change, biodiversity loss, fracturing of multilateralism and social cohesion, enabled by political and ideological polarisation and mis- and disinformation. These threats have complex inter-relationships but can negatively synergise and represent a profound and urgent issue for Australia’s wellbeing in the world.

Professor Brett Sutton explores these ‘wicked problems’ and provides thoughts on how, in tackling them, we can support and revive Australia’s wellbeing as a public and global good.

This event will take place at The Pavilion, Arts Centre Melbourne.
Entry is free but bookings are essential.
Light refreshments will be served following the presentation.

Sustainable Chiswick Project Day
2025-08-06 | CSIRO Chiswick, 9308 New England Highway Armidale NSW
Come and join us at CSIRO’s Chiswick Research Station for a special event!
CSIRO is a leader in agricultural innovation, supported by our research farms around Australia, including at Chiswick on Anaiwan Country, near Armidale in NSW.
The Sustainable Chiswick Project is making this livestock research farm a real-world testbed for agricultural sustainability. This project covers all aspects of sustainability, including environmental, social, and economic.
You’re invited to our Chiswick site for a special project day where we will share our aspirations for this project and its activities.
The morning will feature an overview of the information we have collected to date for the Chiswick farm in natural capital baselining, animal welfare, biodiversity and soil monitoring. In the afternoon, there will be an opportunity, for those interested, to dive deeper into the natural capital and sustainable landscapes activities. We will reflect and explore with participants the next steps and opportunities for how we can drive solutions together.
This is an in-person only event being held at CSIRO’s Chiswick livestock research farm, and registration is required.

Getting to Net Zero
2025-08-06 12:00 - 14:00 | ATSE Office, 28 National Circuit
Getting to Net Zero – Australia’s energy transition and what it means for the ACT & ATSE

The ACT Division Committee are excited to welcome you to our third hybrid seminar for 2025, which will explore the topic of Australia’s energy transition towards net zero greenhouse gas emissions. We will hear from three of our ACT Fellows – from a national and ACT perspective, and in the context of what it means for mitigating climate change.

Why foundational AI matters!
2025-08-06 12:30 - 14:00 | TechCentral Lecture Theatre, Lot 14, Adelaide
Join us on 6 August to hear from Professor Simon Lucey, Director of the Australian Institute for Machine Learning (AIML).
Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the defining technologies of the 21st century, promising significant benefits for economies and societies. Deep neural networks, like those in Open AI’s ChatGPT, now form the backbone of all modern AI. However, despite AI becoming more common, its core principles are still poorly understood; it remains prone to bias and hallucinations; and it demands enormous amounts of energy, data, and computational power.
In this talk, Simon will argue that gaining a better understanding of the foundational aspects of modern AI offers a cost-effective way for Australia to take a leading role. The study of Foundational AI aims to develop methods that are less reliant on big data and high power consumption. The advancements expected from this research are crucial, as companies and governments worldwide race to reduce emissions while expanding the capabilities of next-generation AI. Investing strategically in Foundational AI will also strengthen Australia’s capacity for unique sovereign AI capabilities—an essential factor as our country approaches the mid-21st century.

Using the National Energy Analysis Centre for your business
2025-08-11 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
Do you need to make decisions based on a deeper understanding of the whole Australian energy system, its transition and connections to other infrastructure and the environment? Do you want to understand the energy use patterns, consumer energy resource investment aspirations, and policy needs of Australians from all walks of life?
The National Energy Analysis Centre (NEAC) combines the energy information and insights from Australian households and businesses with state of the art energy system modelling, analysis and visualisation tools, based on rigorous systems science.
You can use NEAC to:

Conduct research ranging from a single survey to a multi-year trial with installed energy monitoring devices
Test new energy products in homes and businesses and understand the implications for the broader system
Monitor and evaluate consumer energy programs
Model parts of the energy system, or all of it, including interactions with other systems such as water and transport. Model at scales ranging from suburbs and industrial hubs to the whole country
Support decarbonisation goals with enhanced regional energy system planning
Evaluate energy security and resilience across jurisdictions in a range of existing and future scenarios.

Join this webinar to hear NEAC Director Dr Stephen Craig, and other members of the team, explain how you can use NEAC to make insightful decisions. There will also be time for questions and answers.

AI in science: the promise, perils and path forward – AI and our food
2025-08-12 17:30 - 19:00 | The Shine Dome, 15 Gordon Street, Acton ACT
Curious about how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the world around us?
Join the Australian Academy of Science in 2025 for ‘AI in science: the promise, perils and path forward’ to explore the current and future implications of AI.
Discover how AI is helping scientists make breakthroughs in health and medicine, climate research, agriculture and food production, space exploration and more. The series will also delve into potential risks, limitations and ethical issues as AI becomes increasingly prominent in science and our society.
The six events in our public speaker series across 2025 will be a mix of panel discussions and presentations, and will feature a range of speakers from science, technology, social science, industry and government. Audiences, both in person and online, will have the opportunity to engage with speakers in the Q&A sessions at each event.

Nerd Nite Melbourne
2025-08-13 19:00 - 21:00 | Howler, 7-11 Dawson Street, Brunswick
2025 is powering ahead, and Nerd Nite Melbourne is back for our fourth epic instalment of the year! This time, we’re diving into: The curious world of LEGO—how those little bricks built a global obsession, Parasitic bacteria in wastewater—gross, yes, but also fascinating (and important!) and behind the scenes with a film director: where do ideas really come from?
Come for the facts, stay for the vibes, and leave with at least three new niche obsessions. Be building bacteria-infested blockbuster dreams.
Be there. Be Square
Ivan Poon
The danger of collecting LEGO!
Description: Collecting LEGO is a major challenge among adults in Australia and worldwide. Not only LEGO has become more expensive over the last few years, preventing adults from saving up enough money for home deposits, LEGO collecting can lead to significant strain on household spaces. So, why are so many adults obsessed with collecting LEGO, and why is it so dangerous to collect LEGO? In this talk, I will explore the culture of LEGO collecting and discuss strategies to address this important global issue.
Bio: Funded by not-so-secret government agencies, Ivan expertly kills and dismantles cells for a living. Occasionally, he writes scientific literature and mentors research fellows, grad and undergrad students to have fun in science. When he is not working as a servant for his two young daughters, he enjoys designing cell biology-related artworks and goodies. Ivan is a true nerd, he enjoys collecting Pokémon cards, watching anime, reading manga and building a LEGO empire!
Socials:
Instagram: @wherearemycells
LinkedIn: Prof Ivan Poon
Steve Petrovski
Who gives a crap
Description: Wastewater foaming is more than just a bubbly nuisance; it’s a serious problem. Persistent foams can disrupt the treatment process and increase operational costs, which ultimately appear on your water bill. In this talk, Steve will dive into the world of wastewater and explore how he is using bacteria and viruses (yes, viruses!) to break down these stubborn foams. It’s a frothy blend of microbiology, environmental science, and unexpected solutions to a surprisingly costly problem.
Bio: Steve Petrovski is an Associate Professor at La Trobe University and a molecular microbiologist with a research focus on mobile genetic elements in bacteria. His work explores how these elements contribute to bacterial strength, particularly through the introduction of antibiotic resistance. Steve also investigates bacteriophages—viruses that infect and kill bacteria—as potential tools for microbial control. He collaborates widely across disciplines and is committed to advancing microbiological science through both research and education.
Socials:
Twitter/X: @PetrovskiLab
Saara Lamberg
Where do you get your ideas from?
Description: When doing a Q&A for a film, the most asked question that repeats every time, is Where do you get your ideas from? I once shared a video call with David Lynch, and he told me what his passion is. Come along, I’ll share the secret map towards Ideas Land.
Bio: Forget “passion”, the way Saara Lamberg describes their arts practice is “obsession”. A film director, actor, writer, producer, comedian, poet, marathon runner and Professionally Certified Dark Humorist, Saara has many more questions than they do answers. Will you get more ideas attending the session? Will Saara end up stealing your ideas? What IS the meaning of being a nerd?
Socials:
Instagram: @saaralambergofficial
https://linktr.ee/saaralamberg
https://artists.australianculturalfund.org.au/s/project/a2EMn00000R4wKoMAJ/the-next-saara-lamberg-arthouse-film

Tracking progress: Insights from the Australian Adaptation Database
2025-08-20 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
How are Australians adapting to climate change – and how do we know?
The Australian Adaptation Database is providing a clearer picture of the actions being taken to adapt to climate impacts across Australia. Developed through the NESP Climate Systems Hub, the database captures a sample of real-world adaptation efforts across sectors, locations, and scales. Join us as we walk through how the database was built, what it can tell us, and how it can support decision-making across all levels of government. We’ll explore how the tool is being used to track national progress, characterise adaptation trends, and inform planning and policy – from local councils to national reports. We’ll also share what’s next, including opportunities to contribute your own work to the database.

2025 Einstein Lecture (Associate Professor Jacqueline Romero)
2025-08-20 18:00 - 19:30 | 12 Wally’ Walk, Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus
The Einstein Lecture is an annual public event run by the NSW Branch of The Australian Institute of Physics during the past 15 years. Distinguished speakers have covered a wide range of topics with an emphasis on Einstein’s ideas and their consequences for physics and technology today. Topics can range from quantum computing to plasma physics to astrophysics. The aim of the talks is to generate interest by exciting the audience to the wonders of physics by providing the most recent advances by world experts.
Entanglement Levels Up: Quantum Information Using the Shape of Light
Abstract: Quantum entanglement is the quintessential quantum phenomenon. This talk will give an introduction to entanglement, its importance and implications. Photons played an instrumental role in the experiments that established the reality (aha!) of entanglement. Photons are rich physical systems that are not limited to representing the ubiquitous qubit—photons are naturally high-dimensional, they can be qudits. In particular, the transverse modes—the shape—of light forms a convenient quantum alphabet for high-dimensional quantum information. This talk will introduce qudits, high-dimensional entanglement, and their potential for quantum technologies.
Bio: Dr Jacq Romero is an expert in experimental photonic quantum information. Her research is focused on using higher-dimensional systems for exploring curious quantum physics phenomena and developing future quantum technologies. She is the group leader of the research team Qudits@UQ. Jacq was born and bred in Manila, Philippines. Hearing her high school physics teacher complain about quantum physics, she became curious and googled “quantum physics”—she has been hooked ever since. She holds a PhD degree from the University of Glasgow where she was a researcher for seven years. In 2015, she moved to the University of Queensland, where is currently an Associate Professor. She has received prestigious awards and fellowships that include a 2016 ARC DECRA, a 2019 Westpac Research Fellowship, and a 2019 L’Oreal-UNESCO For Women In Science International Rising Talent Award (1 of 15 awards globally). She received the Ruby Payne-Scott Medal of the Australian Institute of Physics in 2018 for excellence in early-career research. She is a Chief Investigator at the ARC Centre of Excellence For Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS) and the Deputy Director of the ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centre on Current and Emergent Quantum Technologies (CEQuTech). Outside work, she is a busy mum to three lovely boys, and an occasional painter.
Choose from two lecture sessions:
Wednesday 20 August 2025, 6pm – 7.30pm 12 Wally’ Walk, Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus REGISTER HERE (free)
Thursday 21 August 2025, 6pm – 7.30pm Science Space, University of Wollongong Innovation Campus REGISTER HERE ($5 – includes a drink)

Made & Grown: The Future of Food
2025-08-21 | Lotus Hall Auditorium Theatre (Building 188A), The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
The Agrifood Innovation Institute in partnership with Cellular Agriculture Australia is bringing the future of food to Canberra. Made & Grown: The Future of Food will place the spotlight on the biotechnologies shaping our food system.

Our food system is changing. Innovation and necessity are driving an evolution of how we produce food, in both new and traditional industries.
Australia is well-placed to build on our agricultural excellence to leverage global demand for more protein, functional foods and innovative consumer products. Through the application of biotechnologies like cell cultivation, precision fermentation, plant molecular farming and synthetic biology, Australia has the potential to capitalise on a multi-billion dollar opportunity and become a global biomanufacturing leader.
Whether we can realise this opportunity will depend on the ability to grow the sector in Australia through a combination of: building familiarity and trust in the technologies, growing public and private investment, and the right policy environment.
Made & Grown will showcase these technologies to support legislators, policymakers and regulators to understand the technologies, applications and products that are changing how we produce food and how they could shape a resilient food system.
The Made & Grown program is being designed by an Advisory Committee in conjunction with the cellular agriculture sector, to ensure high calibre, relevant and contemporary content.
You’ll enjoy a full day of engaging programming from 9:00am to 5:00pm, including catered morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea.

International Meeting of the Psychosocial Aspects of Hereditary Cancer (IMPAHC) and Familial Aspects of Cancer Research and Practice
2025-08-25 - 2025-08-28 | Kingscliff, NSW
For the first time in over a decade, the International Meeting of the Psychosocial Aspects of Hereditary Cancer (IMPAHC) returns to Australia! The 18th IMPAHC will take place on 25–26 August 2025, leading into the Familial Aspects of Cancer (FAC) meeting on 27–28 August 2025.
Why Attend?
IMPAHC 2025 will explore cutting-edge topics in hereditary and genomic cancer research, from precision prevention and polygenic risk to diversity in cancer genomics.
FAC 2025 will cover key themes, including:

Breast, ovarian, prostate, sarcoma, colorectal cancer & melanoma
Polygenic Risk Scores & cancer risk
Novel Long Read Sequencing & variant detection
Genetic epidemiology & early cancer detection
Precision medicine in diverse populations
Variant curation & bioinformatics

Join leading experts at this premier event bridging research, clinical care, and innovation.
Learn more and register: https://www.ivvy.com.au/event/IMPAHCFAC25/home.html
