The Trace DNA Lab at the University of Canberra’s Faculty of Science and Technology has been expanded; this represents a significant development in the intersection of technology and biology. The advanced laboratory is equipped with cutting-edge technology to handle minuscule DNA samples, maintain rigorous lab conditions, and conduct various genetic analyses. The lab primarily serves the EcoDNA research team, which specialises in environmental DNA (eDNA) applications for biosecurity and biodiversity.
As Australia’s National eDNA Reference Centre, the lab plays a pivotal role in delivering standardised results and data required by the government to make informed decisions related to biodiversity and biosecurity. Professor Dianne Gleeson, the head of the EcoDNA team, emphasised the lab’s potential to enhance their research endeavours and broaden their horizons in scientific exploration.
The expansion not only increases the lab’s capacity but also opens doors for collaboration with students, interns, and partners, nurturing the next generation of scientific talent.
One of the key features of the lab is its capability to work with trace amounts of DNA. Due to the high risk of contamination, stringent lab conditions are maintained, and the facility is equipped with UV lights for decontamination and specialised airflow systems to prevent cross-contamination. These technological measures ensure the accuracy and reliability of the genetic analyses conducted within the lab.
The significance of the Trace DNA Lab extends beyond scientific research; it exemplifies the university’s commitment to real-world impact through technology and biotechnology. Professor Lucy Johnston, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, emphasised how the EcoDNA team’s work aligns with the university’s ethos, where research is a driving force for change and protection.
The lab’s activities are integral to safeguarding Australia from biohazards and supporting vital conservation efforts. Moreover, it contributes to nurturing future scientific talent, playing a crucial role in training the next generation of scientists who will carry forward the legacy of research with impact.
The lab’s mission is multifaceted, encompassing various projects in the field of biosecurity. Notable among them is the “hitchhikers project,” which monitors and analyses the dust content in shipping containers, a critical biosecurity measure. The ports monitoring project is another initiative in which airborne DNA is analysed through IMAP Sentinel units. These projects are pivotal for identifying potential biosecurity risks and taking timely action.
Additionally, the EcoDNA team is actively engaged in ongoing biodiversity monitoring projects, collaborating with private sector groups. These endeavours leverage technology to assess and safeguard the rich biodiversity of Australia. The expanded lab space now enables the team to scale up existing projects and take on new challenges, fostering innovative approaches to ecological and environmental research.
The collaboration between the EcoDNA team and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF) underscores the importance of strong partnerships in advancing biosecurity research. Professor Geoff Grossel, Director of Biosecurity Research at DAFF, recognised the power of such collaborations and their contribution to the National Biosecurity Strategy.
The expansion of the Trace DNA Lab at the University of Canberra’s Faculty of Science and Technology is a testament to the evolving role of technology in biological research. The lab’s specialised equipment, stringent lab conditions, and advanced genetic analysis techniques demonstrate the pivotal role of technology in addressing critical challenges related to biosecurity and biodiversity conservation.
The research facility not only contributes to protecting Australia from biohazards but also serves as a training ground for the next generation of scientists who will continue to use technology to make a real-world impact in the field of biology.
OpenGov Asia reported earlier that in Victoria, the Government is heavily investing in the advancement of cutting-edge mRNA technology for vaccines and medical treatments, cultivating an innovation industry that both generates employment opportunities and offers transformative healthcare solutions to the people of Victoria.
The region’s Minister for Economic Growth has officially initiated the application process for Round 3 of the mRNA Victoria Research Acceleration Fund, which provides grants to eligible research teams and biotech startups. These grants are designed to support research teams in the development of innovative RNA and mRNA-based therapeutics. Biotech startups can receive up to AU$500,000 to expedite the translation of research, while research teams engaged in early-stage investigations can access grants of up to AU$100,000.
