Biotechnology

aerial view of island surrounded by blue seas

Transparency in science: Talking about the potential of gene editing for conservation

The humble but prolific house mouse on a remote Western Australian island might serve a crucial purpose for scientists investigating the potential of gene modification as an environmental control for conservation. Community values - as well as science – will determine what’s both possible and acceptable.

Bird in flight

Taking a responsible approach to new genetic technologies for conservation

With rats and mice driving sea birds and other animals on remote islands to extinction, scientists and environmental managers are now turning their attention to new genetic technologies that could offer more targeted solutions than traditional baiting programs. Risk analysis and responsible research is front and centre in the discussion.

160 people who attended the The Cutting Edge Symposium on Synthetic Biology are pictured on the steps of the Australian War Memorial. The event was held in Canberra on 4–5 April 2016.

Symposium highlights Australia as a vibrant hub for synthetic biology

Biofactories, biosensors and beyond: new technologies are being inspired by nature. Synthetic biology is one of the most rapidly growing areas of modern science and there has been a groundswell of interest in Australia.