AARNet

AARNet is Australia’s national research and education network, a not-for-profit organisation equally owned by 38 Australian universities and CSIRO. AARNet provides essential high-speed internet and advanced network services tailored to meet the specialised needs of researchers in Australia.
TRI boosts medical research efficiency with FileSender

The Translational Research Institute’s integration of FileSender enables fast and secure data sharing, streamlining collaboration for vital medical research. The Translational Research Institute (TRI) is at the forefront of medical research, supporting diverse research projects that produce crucial data to further our understanding of complex diseases. The institute plays a key role in studies spanning cancer biology, […]
Making visible the impact of Australia’s national microscopy infrastructure

Through trust and identity, the impact of Australia’s distributed microscopy infrastructure will be revealed. Microscopy Australia is a consortium of university-based microscopy facilities that provides more than 3,500 Australian researchers a year, with access to state-of the-art microscopes. Through access to their facilities, crucial research is enabled in areas such as future energy innovations, improved […]
Unlocking the power of Australia’s Tier 1 supercomputer

Through a national framework for trusted identity, accessing one of Australia’s Tier 1 supercomputers will become easier. The Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre (Pawsey) is one of two Tier-1 high-performance computing facilities in Australia. Its primary function is to accelerate scientific research for the benefit of the nation. Pawsey’s service and expertise in supercomputing, data, cloud […]
Baseline monitoring of seagrass and macroalgal habitats for an integrated national response to extreme events

Background The frequency and severity of extreme events such as marine heatwaves, cyclones and flooding along Australia’s West Coast is increasing, however, the impact of such events on marine ecosystems cannot be determined without sufficient baseline data. For example, 36 percent of the total seagrass area in Shark Bay is thought to have died in […]
Partnering for impact with Australian industry

Supporting industry with data access The Atlas of Living Australia (ALA) is Australia’s national biodiversity data infrastructure. It allows industry, researchers, decision-makers and the community to contribute, access and analyse data on Australia’s plants, animals and fungi. The ALA is partnering with industry to leverage the power of biodiversity data and infrastructure to support business […]
ALA’s Indigenous Ecological Knowledge Program

Connecting Traditional and Western science Indigenous Ecological Knowledge The Atlas of Living Australia’s (ALA) Indigenous Ecological Knowledge (IEK) program supports collaboration with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander partners, promotes Indigenous ecological knowledge and languages, and links this knowledge to Western science. Indigenous ecological knowledge is based on thousands of years of studying native plants, animals and the […]
ALA helps to stop pests in their tracks

The Atlas of Living Australia (ALA) and its large network of biodiversity data providers are helping our national biosecurity system to protect Australia’s flora and fauna from the threat of invasive species. The ALA’s Biosecurity Alert System Australia is one of the most biodiverse continents on the planet, but the health of our environment, and agriculture, is under constant […]
Data Without Borders: the role of Globus in international genome research

Genetics technical specialists at the Biomolecular Resource Facility are using the Globus data movement service through AARNet to share huge datasets with national and international collaborators. The Biomolecular Resource Facility (BRF) is located in Canberra within the John Curtin School of Medical Research at the Australian National University (ANU). As a core laboratory providing research […]
Future-proofing computational proteomics

EMBL Australia and Bioplatforms Australia joined forces to host a pivotal proteomics workshop titled ‘Future-proofing Computational Proteomics’ on 24 April, featuring leading guest speakers, Dr Rolf Apweiler, Prof Marc Wilkins and Dr Richard Lipscombe. The Australian proteomics community discussed advancements in proteomics research and the pivotal role of computational approaches in shaping the future of […]
Supporting Australia’s food security and agriculture industry

Over 90% of fruit, vegetables, meat, milk, and eggs sold in Australia are domestically produced, and over half of Australia’s agricultural produce is exported. As an important contributor to the Australian economy, the gross value of Australia’s agricultural food production is forecast at $79 billion for 2023-24, and our agricultural exports are forecast at $65 […]
Enhancing Resilience and Flavor in Plant-Based Proteins: The Plant Protein Atlas Initiative

With the world’s population expected to reach unprecedented levels by 2050 and a 73% projected increase in meat consumption, there is an urgent need to double food production. Australia’s plant protein market is poised to reach an estimated value of $18 billion (AUD) by 2032, while the global plant protein food sector is projected to […]
New native mice species

Two new native mice have scurried into the list of Australian mammal species! The words “species” and “Australia” are unfortunately traditionally linked to their disappearance from our continent’s highly biodiverse ecosystem. Following from last year’s discovery of a very much alive mouse species which was previously thought to be extinct in the wild, researchers have […]
Centre for Accelerator Science (ANSTO – Nuclear Science Facilities)
ANSTO’s Centre for Accelerator Science (CAS) is one of two landmark research infrastructure facilities supported by NCRIS through the funded Nuclear Science Facilities (NSF) program. CAS provides ultra-sensitive sample characterisation, dating, materials modification and irradiation to research and industry users from Australia and the world to solve complex questions and problems.
Therapeutic Innovation Australia (TIA)

Therapeutic Innovation Australia (TIA) is the lead agent for the NCRIS “Therapeutic Innovation Australia” project. TIA a national consortium of translational research infrastructure that provides researchers and SMEs the expertise and capabilities required to move a potential therapeutic product along the development pathway.
Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network (TERN)

Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network is an NCRIS funded program. NCRIS is a national network of world-class research infrastructure projects that support high-quality research that will drive greater innovation in the Australian research sector and the economy more broadly.
National Deuteration Facility (NDF)
ANSTO’s National Deuteration Facility (NDF) is an NCRIS funded program which created and supports Australia’s only molecular deuteration facility. NDF provides access to landmark infrastructure and expertise for chemical and biological deuteration capabilities, facilitating world-leading research for Australian users to address complex challenges in industrial, medical and environmental applications.
Australian Research Data Commons (ARDC)

The Australian Research Data Commons (ARDC) provides Australian researchers with competitive advantage through data. It accelerates research and innovation by driving excellence in the creation, analysis and retention of high-quality data assets. The ARDC is enabled by the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS). NCRIS is a national network of world-class research infrastructure projects that support high-quality research that will drive greater innovation in the Australian research sector and the economy more broadly.
Australian Plant Phenomics Network (APPN)

The Australian Plant Phenomics Network (APPN) delivers national research infrastructure and expertise to accelerate the development of improved crops for sustainable agriculture and food security in a changing climate.
Australian Centre for Neutron Scattering (ANSTO – Nuclear Science Facilities)
ANSTO’s Australian Centre for Neutron Scattering (ACNS) is one of two landmark research infrastructure facilities supported by NCRIS through the funded Nuclear Science Facilities (NSF) program. ACNS uses neutrons from Australia’s multi-purpose research reactor, OPAL, to solve complex research questions and industrial problems for Australian and International users. Neutron scattering techniques allow the structure and dynamics of materials to be determined, permitting scientists and industry to understand why materials have the properties they do, and helping tailor new materials, devices and systems.
Atlas of Living Australia (ALA)

The ALA is Australia’s national biodiversity data infrastructure. It allows researchers, decision makers and the community to contribute, access and analyse data on Australia’s plants, animals and fungi. The ALA also supports international research as the Australian node of the Global Biodiversity Information Facility.
National Imaging Facility (NIF)

National Imaging Facility (NIF) is Australia’s advanced imaging network. We provide open access to world-class imaging equipment, expertise, tools, data and analysis. We address Australia’s strategic science and research priorities, and this benefits Australian industry and helps keep Australians healthy.
Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS)

IMOS is a national collaborative research infrastructure, undertaking systematic, sustained and scientifically-robust observations of our vast and valuable marine estate. All IMOS observations are made discoverable and accessible via the Australian Ocean Data Network (AODN) platform, using FAIR data principles. Additional data is incorporated into the AODN from a wide range of partner organisations including research institutions, federal and state government departments, and private industry.
Australian Access Federation (AAF)

The Australian Access Federation (AAF) is Australia’s leading provider of identity and access management services to the education and research sector. We make it easy for people to securely access education and research services nationally and internationally, by providing single sign-on. It allows individuals from different organisations to collaborate and access online resources within a trusted environment.
Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre (Pawsey)

Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre, Australia’s leading Tier-1 high-performance computing facility, is advancing research and innovation by providing cutting-edge supercomputing, data and visualisation infrastructure and expertise. From accelerating breakthroughs in medicine and climate science to unlocking the mysteries of the universe, Pawsey is at the forefront of driving discovery and advancing knowledge.
Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP)

ACDP helps protect Australia’s multi-billion dollar livestock and aquaculture industries, and the general public, from emerging infectious disease threats. It is a high-containment facility designed to allow scientific research into the most dangerous infectious agents in the world.
Population Health Research Network (PHRN)

The Population Health Research Network (PHRN) has been at the forefront of integrating health and human services data across Australia. With a robust network of data linkage units, PHRN empowers researchers to unlock insights into disease, shaping innovative treatments and enhancing health services nationwide. Underpinned by a commitment to privacy and ethical standards, PHRN exemplifies collaborative research, bolstered by substantial support from government and academic sectors.
EMBL Australia

EMBL Australia is a life science network that supports ambitious research projects and provides access to infrastructure and training to early-career Australian scientists. Through Australia’s associate membership of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Australian researchers can access EMBL’s broad range of world-class infrastructures and international expertise.
Bioplatforms Australia (BPA)

We provide access to ‘omics technologies in support of all life science researchers working across human health, agriculture, biodiversity and industry. Bioplatforms is enabled by the Australian Government’s National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS).
National Sea Simulator (SeaSim)

Discover the future of marine experimental research at the National Sea Simulator, managed by the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS). Our cutting-edge facility employs leading industrial process automation to conduct complex, extensive and long-term aquarium experiments, focusing on Australia’s tropical marine ecosystems. Join us in advancing research and conservation efforts for Australia’s diverse marine estate.
Phenomics Australia (PA)

Phenomics Australia provides a national capability to explore the human genome and the genetic basis of health and disease. Our openly accessible service delivery centres span twenty locations across Australia. Through these, we offer specialised infrastructure, research services and technical expertise dedicated to advancing our fundamental understanding of health and disease and enabling next-generation innovations in healthcare and therapeutic development to benefit all Australians.
Microscopy Australia (MicroAu)

Microscopy Australia provides researchers and industry with open access to the nation’s largest range of high-end microscopes, microanalysis tools, and specialists. It consists of university-based microscopy centres around the country. Our instruments have dedicated experts to deliver high quality training and support to ensure you get the best research outcomes.
Australian National Fabrication Facility (ANFF)

ANFF owns and provides access to micro and nanofabrication capabilities for Australia’s researchers and industry. We can assist in both the development of new products and improvements to current production methods. Each Node provides expertise in a specific area, including advanced materials, nanoelectronics & photonics and nano-bio applications. The ANFF commitment to providing a world-class, open-access user facility is underpinned by the sharing of best practice in service provision across the network.
Heavy Ion Accelerators (HIA)

Our $150M world-class accelerator facilities for high-energy ion beam research represents decades of strategic investment by the Australian National University, the University of Melbourne, our industry partners and the Australian Government. With R&D capabilities unparalleled in Australia and matched by few globally, we support research activities in sectors of national priority, including quantum computing, space and astronomy, advanced materials, environment and climate, cancer therapies, minerals exploration, and fundamental nuclear science.
Protein discovery for better bowel cancer treatments

Bowel cancer claims more than 100 lives in Australia every week. Thankfully, researchers at the Australian National University (ANU) have discovered that an immune protein can slow the division of bowel cancer cells. This is a promising target for both early detection tests and bowel cancer treatments. DR ABHIMANU PANDEY SAYS AN IMMUNE SYSTEM PROTEIN […]
Strengthening our European connections to EMBL and beyond

On a recent visit to EMBL Heidelberg, Ian Smith, Chair of the EMBL Australia Council, spoke about the synergies between EMBL and EMBL Australia, opportunities for collaboration and ideas for exciting future programs. Ian Smith, Chair of the EMBL Australia Council, chatted to EMBL about the synergies between the organisations, opportunities for collaboration, and ideas […]
Integrated Earth 2023 conference highlights the ambition of Australia’s Earth science community

Members of the earth science community from all over Australia came to Canberra in September to take part in a unique gathering – the Integrated Earth 2023 conference. Supported by the Australian Academy of Science as an Elizabeth and Frederick White Conference, Integrated Earth brought together researchers from the five broad spheres of Earth science: […]
Monitoring algal blooms in a changing climate: IMOS collaboration

Researchers have used IMOS’s Ocean Gliders along with Microscopy Australia’s microscopes to better understand Western Australia’s major algal blooms in 2021. South West Western Australia experienced an exceptionally wet winter in 2021, with significantly higher than average rainfall causing an increased outflow of water from many rivers along the south west coast during the period […]
Biobanks: the Australian Phenome Bank

The Australian Phenome Bank: a national biobank and database aiding the discovery of genetic disease causes and advancing Personalised Medicine. Phenomics Australia’s Biobanking service provides a database and cryobank of mouse sperm and embryos essential for discovering and distributing disease models in Australia. The challenge: Ensuring the ongoing availability of mouse strains preserving the investment made in […]
CRISPR/Cas as diagnostics tools

Phenomics Australia NCRIS expertise is used in providing knowledge to look into the commercial and translational potential of CRISPR technology. Phenomics Australia’s long-term support of the In vivo Genome Engineering and Disease Modelling nodes over the years has allowed researchers at the Melbourne Advanced Genome Editing Center (MAGEC) to have a solid understanding of CRISPR/Cas […]
When food kills

Infrastructure and expertise supported by Phenomics Australia and Therapeutic Innovation Australia (TIA)are used in fighting food poisoning toxins. Prof Si Ming Man (right) and Dr Anukriti Mathur (left). Image Lannon Harley/ANU The challenge: Food poisoning is estimated to affect more than 4 million Australians every year – costing the economy $1.25 billion, and in some […]
How Australia’s national research infrastructure is responding to COVID-19

Australia’s National Research Infrastructure (NRI) swiftly redeployed to support national and international COVID-19 research. Some examples are listed below. Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP), Bioplatforms Australia (BPA), Microscopy Australia and Therapautic Innovation Australia (TIA) were involved in the University of Queensland vaccine program. Australian Plant Phenomics Facility (APPF) is supporting research into plant-based vaccines. Astronomy Australia […]
New Era in X-Ray Imaging

Next generation X-ray technology, developed and manufactured in Adelaide, is solving global health, defence and security challenges by making X-ray machines significantly lighter and more portable. In-depth imaging is now available on the move thanks to Adelaide-based medical device manufacturer, Micro-X, which has commercialised a new way of producing x-rays. The ASX-listed company is harnessing […]
Global weather prediction: Australia’s contribution to the global Argo array

Australia’s Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) coordinates Australia’s contribution of approximately 10% of the global Argo array. Used internationally and by the Royal Australian Navy to predict ocean conditions, Argo data is critical to weather prediction globally. Argo data helps scientists understand large-scale ocean temperature and salinity structures, interactions between the ocean and atmosphere, and […]
Southern Ocean Time Series providing important data for ocean observations globally

Deployed and retrieved by the Marine National Facility (MNF) on behalf of Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS), the Southern Ocean Time Series Observatory provides high temporal resolution observations in sub-Antarctic waters. Observations are broad and include measurements of physical, chemical and biogeochemical parameters from multiple deep water moorings in the sub-Antarctic Zone southwest of Tasmania. […]
Transistors from thin air

Next-generation transistors may revolutionise electronics The transistor is the building block for all electronics, and typically involves sending electrical currents through silicon. Every computer and phone has millions to billions of silicon electronic transistors, but this technology is reaching its physical limits where the silicon atoms get in the way of the current flow, limiting […]
Reef Spawning in SeaSim

The National Sea Simulator (SeaSim) supports the propagation of a range of marine organisms, including corals, sponges, and Crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS). Utilising advanced infrastructure, SeaSim replicates natural spawning conditions, making it an invaluable resource for studying reproductive processes and early-history of marine invertebrates. SeaSim’s proximity to the Great Barrier Reef ensures easy access to reproductively […]
Better cholesterol imaging

An international team of researchers has developed a new way to localise cholesterol is in cells and tissues. This provides insights into how cholesterol moves in and out of cells and could eventually lead to new therapies for cardiovascular disease. Deuterated cholesterol enabled by the National Deuteration Facility and NanoSIMS (nano-Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy) at […]