The Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr, today opened the Microbial and Cellular Imaging and Analysis Facility at the University of Technology, Sydney.

“Last November, I announced funding of over $31.6 million for 73 projects under the Australian Research Council’s Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities scheme,” Senator Carr said.

“The Microbial and Cellular Imaging and Analysis Facility was one of these projects, receiving $750,000, and I am pleased to be here just one year later to open this world-class research facility.

“This facility will enable the development and application of state-of-the-art technologies for investigating microbes and the way they interact with other organisms, host cells and the environment.

“It will also allow Australian researchers to better detect, understand, and treat human, animal and plant diseases and the environmental impact of climate change.

“Its DeltaVision OMX super-high-resolution microscope is one of only two of this type in the world.”

The operation of the Microbial and Cellular Imaging and Analysis Facility involves collaboration between five Australian institutions—University of Technology, Sydney; La Trobe University; University of Melbourne; University of Sydney; and University of Wollongong.

“The Rudd Government is committed to supporting the cooperative development and shared use of national and international research facilities,” Senator Carr said.

The successful Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities projects for funding commencing in 2010 will be announced shortly.

To find out more about the scheme, visit www.arc.gov.au

Media contacts:  Patrick Pantano, Minister’s Office, 0417 181 936
                          Sheena Ireland, ARC, 0412 623 056