Bioplatforms Australia is proud to announce the remarkable achievements of its affiliated projects and researchers, who have been named finalists in the prestigious 2024 Eureka Prizes.
The Threatened Species Initiative
At the forefront of Bioplatforms’ contributions is the Threatened Species Initiative, a program that has been selected as a finalist for the Eureka Prize for Environmental Research. This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration, involving over 200 experts working together to generate genetic data for 102 endangered species. By making this genetic information accessible and user-friendly, the initiative provides invaluable insights that are revolutionising conservation efforts across Australia. The Threatened Species Initiative not only aids in combating biodiversity decline but also sets a new standard for leveraging genetic data to protect and preserve the nation’s unique wildlife.
Distinguished contributions to leadership in science
Distinguished Professor Ian Paulsen and Professor Mark Hutchinson have been recognised for their work in the category of Leadership in Science. Professor Paulsen has been instrumental in establishing Australia as a global leader in synthetic biology. His efforts led to the founding of the Australian Genome Foundry, in partnership with Bioplatforms Australia, and the securing of A$180 million in venture capital for nine start-ups fostered by the facility.
Professor Mark Hutchinson has been selected for the Eureka Prize for Leadership in Science, recognising his impact as a science and technology leader in Australia through his entrepreneurship, policy influence, and advocacy for STEM and inclusivity. He is one of Bioplatforms’ key partners, leading the Centre of Excellence in Nanoscale BioPhotonics to advance our understanding of cellular processes, and co-chairing the SABRE Alliance to address defence challenges through the Ricin Genomics and Global Origins Initiative.
Key collaborations and achievements
The ACRF Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging and Diagnosis (ACEMID) has been selected for the Aspire Scholarship Eureka Prize for Excellence in Interdisciplinary Scientific Research. Bioplatforms Australia supported ACEMID with biomolecular data and cross-NCRIS support, enhancing melanoma risk assessments and personalised prevention strategies.
Furthermore, the Restore & Renew Knowledge Infrastructure Team, a finalist for the Australian Institute of Botanical Science Eureka Prize for Excellence in Botanical Science, collaborated with Bioplatforms to access Next Generation DNA Sequencing. These tools unlocked genetic, adaptive, environmental, and ecological information about Australian plant species, supporting the restoration and conservation of over 130 species.
Bioplatforms Australia is thrilled to support these outstanding projects and individuals, whose work exemplifies excellence in scientific discovery and innovation. Congratulations to all the finalists, and we look forward to the announcement of the winners!
More details can be found on the 2024 Australian Museum Eureka Prizes (https://australian.museum/get-involved/eureka-prizes/) and this year’s finalists (https://australian.museum/get-involved/eureka-prizes/2024-eureka-prizes-finalists/ on the Australian Museum site.