The announcement last month of $24 million in Australian Research Council funding for the Antarctic Gateway Partnership under its Special Research Initiatives scheme is great news for Hobart, and for the scientists who call Australia's southern-most city home.
The partnership, which brings together the University of Tasmania's Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, the Australian Maritime College, CSIRO's Oceans and Atmosphere Flagship, and the Australian Antarctic Division, will reinforce recognition of Tasmania as a global leader in Antarctic and Southern Ocean science.
A series of recent federal funding outcomes, technology commercialisation deals and other initiatives has enhanced the University of Tasmania’s reputation as one of Australia’s top research-intensive universities.
It is a ringing endorsement of the standard of research done here and of the global impact of our work. Some of that research and its impact is essayed in this issue, which is devoted to the University’s five major research themes.
It was a momentous occasion in late January when the University of Tasmania’s $45 million Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) headquarters was officially opened on Hobart’s waterfront.
The opening of this new facility means that with the Australian Maritime College (AMC) based at Newnham we now have distinctive marine and maritime capabilities on our two main campuses.
This year has been one of attainment for research, and researchers, at the University of Tasmania.
In 2013, we have benefitted from an unprecedented level of support from the Australian Research Council, including $7.5 million of the total $27 million in funding for the creation of two Industrial Transformation Research Hubs, and from the Commonwealth, notably $12 million for a Clinical Redesign Laboratory and $25 million in refunding for the ACE CRC.
You will at least recognise the title, if not the format. Five years on, Research to Reality has undergone a makeover, with an expanded, redesigned print publication, supplemented for the first time by an electronic version.
The theme for this issue is Health and Wellbeing, a timely focus as UTAS prepares to officially open its medical science precinct in Hobart's CBD and finesses a plan for a state health science and sport precinct - unique in Australia - on Launceston's Newnham campus.
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "There is a bit of a buzz around the University of Tasmania’s research in the areas of environment and sustainability at the moment – and I am not just referring to the native bees that make an illuminating appearance in this issue."
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "This edition of Research to Reality is devoted entirely to highlights of some of the world-class research being undertaken at our Launceston and Cradle Coast campuses. Here, our research builds on regional strengths, innovation and knowledge and enables us to undertake research with local application that also has global extension and impact."
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "The UTAS partnership with the Tasmanian Government is a pivotal piece of the UTAS research mission. Our unique position as the only university in the State means we have a clear responsibility to support and contribute to our local community. State government departments such as Education, DPIPWE and Health and Human Services are often inextricably linked with UTAS research."
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "In this issue of Research to Reality, we celebrate some of those UTAS researchers, immersed in projects as diverse as an attempt to produce veneer products from the stems of coconut trees, an initiative that could boost the economies of Pacific nations; a four-year investigation into post-year 10 schooling in collaboration with the Tasmanian Department of Education and the conversion of wave energy into electricity, one of Australia’s vast untapped resources."
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) “Agricultural research is one of the areas of research excellence within the University of Tasmania. So it’s exciting that our first issue of Research to Reality for 2012 – a year which is being celebrated as the Australian Year of the Farmer – showcases several projects that are contributing to the further development of sustainable, innovative and prosperous agricultural industries and communities.”
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) " It’s yet another example of UTAS’s ultimate vision, which includes utilising that which makes us distinctive, and harnessing what it is that sets us apart"
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "If anyone has doubts about the practical application of university research, then perhaps this edition will reassure them. Showcased here are eight examples of UTAS-driven research that promises to make a real difference to people’s lives and to Australia’s future economic prosperity. This is not research for research’s sake."
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "Researchers at the University of Tasmania have reason to celebrate with the release of the 2010 QS world university rankings. We were accorded a VH (Very High) rating for research output relative to our size and focus. This recognition is largely due to the talent and dedication of our staff and the partnerships that we have forged – with other tertiary institutions and the private sector in this State, around Australia and overseas."
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "Welcome to the first edition of Research to Reality for 2011, a celebratory one in the sense that its content reflects the University of Tasmania’s top marks in a recent national analysis of university research. UTAS is meeting or exceeding world standards in 71 per cent of disciplines, according to the Excellence in Research for Australia assessment released at the end of January."
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "It is my great pleasure to introduce the sixth edition of Research to Reality. This snapshot of research within the University is deeply rooted in the strong links the University has with its local environment. Whether it is developing a greater understanding of our historical context, understanding the impact of our farming practices on wild fires, or understanding our unique animal and natural heritage, all of the research shows a passion and commitment to the development of Tasmania."
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "This edition of Research to Reality illustrates the wide diversity of research at the University of Tasmania, a characteristic feature of a broadly based and comprehensive university. It is particularly pleasing to note the enthusiastic approach of UTAS staff towards the inclusion of their research in Research to Reality."
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "This edition of Research to Reality is devoted to research being undertaken in the fields of marine and Antarctic studies and helps describe the area covered by the University’s newest institute, the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS)."
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "I am delighted to introduce the third edition of the University of Tasmania’s research magazine Research to Reality. This edition focuses on research in health as well as on social sciences, pharmacy, agriculture and hydrodynamics applied to shipping."
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "I am pleased to present the second edition of Research to Reality, which showcases examples of research from the faculties of Science, Engineering and Technology; Law; Arts and Business at the University of Tasmania."
Excerpt of Introduction from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) "The University of Tasmania is one of Australia's oldest universities, with a long tradition of research, particularly in areas such as marine and Antarctic science, as befits an island state that is the staging post for Australia's Antarctic programme..."