The Western Australian Government has announced $5.2 million over four years to build the state’s international profile in science through the support of WA’s Nobel Laureates and the attraction of new research fellows.

 

Science and Innovation Minister John Day said the government was focused on building the state’s research profile internationally and building a strong knowledge economy.

 

“A strong foundation of knowledge and expertise is paramount to the continued growth and development of the State’s economy,” he said.

 

“This funding will be used to attract distinguished researchers to carry out research of strategic importance to the State through the WA Research Fellowships Program.

 

“The applicants will join high achievers such as Professor Shaun Collin, who was awarded a Fellowship in 2009 and moved to Perth from Queensland. Since his arrival, Professor Collin has enhanced the State’s research profile internationally in the areas of neuroscience, marine biology, ecology, deep-sea biology and sensory neurobiology.”

 

The Minister said the funding would also support the activities of WA’s Nobel Laureates, Dr Robin Warren and Professor Barry Marshall, to promote the State’s existing world-class research and innovation capabilities.