Research optimising human cognitive and physical performance for elite athletes at Murdoch University will be translated to help Australian Defence Forces through a joint initiative launched in Western Australia today.
Murdoch University has joined Western Australia’s four public universities in a collaboration with State and Commonwealth Governments in the establishment of the Defence Science Centre (DSC).
The Centre was launched today by the Minister for Defence Issues, Paul Papalia.
Minister Papalia said by formalising this partnership, defence-related research opportunities for WA researchers can be maximised.
“We have established the Defence Science Centre to create the right conditions for the development of cutting-edge science and innovation in Western Australia,” he said.
“Developing a DSC in WA will greatly enhance collaboration between the academic and industry sectors, and makes us part of a broader national network of defence-related research.
“This will enable WA researchers to more easily link into projects, boosting our own State’s capability and future proofing WA’s defence industry, keeping and growing skills and knowledge here and creating job opportunities for Western Australians.”
Research with real-life impact
Professor David Morrison, Murdoch’s Deputy Vice Chancellor Research and Innovation, said the University welcomed the launch of the Centre.
“Murdoch is a research-led university, which focuses on multidisciplinary translational research with real-life impact,” Professor Morrison said.
“The Defence Science Centre will harness the potential of academic collaboration and innovative thinking at universities to focus on Defence and industry challenges
“Murdoch University’s research will help to solve many challenges faced by Australia’s Defence Forces.
Murdoch University is also exploring its capacity to boost the Australian Defence Forces through engineering, artificial intelligence, big data and biosecurity expertise.