The University of Queensland may be celebrating the achievements of its researchers during its 2003 Research Week (September 22-26), but the day to day business of research seems to be getting tougher.
With a lot of research now the focus of heavy regulation, which is often thought by some to impede the innovation that is needed to create new work and to develop existing knowledge.
Some of Queensland's top researchers will be debating this issue come Wednesday, September 24, at an Australasian Research Management Society (ARMS) and Australian Institute of Health, Law & Ethics (AIHLE) Great Debate.
To be held at Customs House from 6pm, the topic "Swimming in a Sea of Change: Is Regulation Killing Innovation?" will see panellists tackle issues relating to the ethics, regulation, legislation and commercialisation that surround innovation, with a particular focus on the fast growing area of gene research.
To be chaired by Emeritus Professor Ian Lowe, from Griffith University, the panel will include Dr Ian Findlay of the Australian Genome Research Facility, Professor Lyn Griffiths of the Genomics Research Centre at Griffith University and Associate Professor John MacMillan of the Queensland Clinical Genetic Service arguing regulation is killing innovation.
While Dr Peter Isdale, from UQ's Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Professor Wayne Hall from the IMB's Office of Public Policy and Ethics and Associate Professor William Grey from UQ's School of History, Philosophy, Religion and Classics arguing the negative.
Given the importance of innovation to Australia's future, the event promises to be a great opportunity for public debate and the audience will be invited to take part in the discussion.
ARMS and AIHLE are independent associations actively involved in promoting professional development, public awareness and discussion of issues across a number of disciplines.
Media: For more information contact Jennifer Fleming (telephone 0413225528 or email Jennifer.Fleming1@bigpond.com).
