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Curtin University recently became the exclusive institution outside of Europe to join the EXCITE2 network. This collaboration positions Curtin as a global leader in nanoscale geoscience research, offering opportunities to address critical issues such as environmental sustainability and the acquisition of essential minerals for the transition to renewable energy and a carbon-neutral economy.
Professor Steven Reddy, the Science Director of the Geoscience Atom Probe at Curtin, acknowledged the university’s recognition within the EXCITE2 network. Funded by the European Research Council, EXCITE2 provides access to advanced imaging technologies for observing processes at the microscopic scale in Earth materials.
Professor Reddy emphasised the significance of advanced imaging capabilities in understanding and managing challenges related to environmental sustainability and human health. He highlighted that the EXCITE2 Network would play a pivotal role in addressing socio-economic challenges by establishing connections between environmental factors and human health, mitigating risks associated with climate change, accelerating the knowledge required for the adoption of sustainable and renewable energy technologies, promoting advancements in nanoscience, and ensuring the well-being of oceans, water, and sustainable polar regions.
Dr. David Saxey, the Facility Leader of Curtin’s Geoscience Atom Probe, provided insights into the unique capabilities of the Geoscience Atom Probe facility. This state-of-the-art facility offers three-dimensional images of atomic distributions in small volumes of natural materials, including samples from significant ore deposits essential for mineral exploration.
Being the only institution outside of Europe selected to participate in the EXCITE2 network underscores the international reputation and impact of Curtin’s Geoscience Atom Probe group as a leader in nanoscale geoscience. As part of this exclusive network, Curtin is set to share its geoscience expertise and the capabilities of the Geoscience Atom Probe facility in the John de Laeter Centre with some of the world’s top researchers.
Commencing in 2024, Curtin will receive funding over four years to provide access to its Geoscience Atom Probe facility and collaborate with European-based researchers within the EXCITE2 network. Utrecht University leads the EXCITE2 network, which includes analytical instruments based in 18 different institutions.
This collaboration marks a significant step forward for Curtin University, opening doors to international research partnerships and positioning the institution at the forefront of efforts to address global challenges. The interdisciplinary nature of the EXCITE2 network allows Curtin to contribute its expertise in nanoscale geoscience to a broader research community focused on finding innovative solutions to pressing issues.
The inclusion in the EXCITE2 network not only highlights Curtin’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge but also underscores its dedication to making meaningful contributions to global challenges. By collaborating with leading earth and environmental scientists from around the world, Curtin is poised to make significant strides in understanding and mitigating the impacts of human activities on the environment.
The Geoscience Atom Probe Facility at Curtin stands out as a valuable resource, providing detailed insights into the atomic structure of natural materials. This capability is particularly crucial for studying ore deposits and other samples relevant to mineral exploration, contributing to advancements in the understanding of Earth’s composition and resources.
As Curtin embarks on this collaborative journey, it signifies a new chapter in the university’s role in global research initiatives. The exchange of knowledge, expertise, and resources within the EXCITE2 network promises to accelerate progress in critical areas such as environmental science, renewable energy, and sustainable practices.
In conclusion, Curtin University’s inclusion in the EXCITE2 network marks a significant achievement, solidifying its position as a global leader in nanoscale geoscience research. The collaboration not only opens avenues for addressing pressing global challenges but also reflects Curtin’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge for the benefit of humanity.
As the university embarks on this international collaboration, the Geoscience Atom Probe facility stands as a beacon of innovation, offering unique insights into the microscopic world of Earth materials. With the support of the EXCITE2 network, Curtin is well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to the global pursuit of a sustainable and carbon-neutral future.
