Network Research Activities

Network activities will focus on developing strategies to improve information accessible to Network participants in order to:

Bring recognition and a national focus to the study and use of Australian Microbial Resources
Encourage inter-disciplinary research with respect to microbial taxa and research expertise
Facilitate collaborative linkages between researchers and innovative bioindustries

Proposed Activities

Foster a research environment to accelerate the discovery and exploitation of Australian microbial resources
Establishment of a research database identifying research activity, capacity, and expertise
Development of an inventory of Australian microbial diversity
Establish a visiting scientist program to encourage collaboration between researchers and training of young researchers

Development of a coordinated network of Australian Collections of Microorganisms
Development of integrated electronic access to culture collection catalogues and databases
Development of standard operating procedures and quality systems for Australian culture collections
Development of computer software for the management of culture collection resources

Facilitate electronic access to information pertaining to the Australian Microbial Resources Research Network by establishment of a Network website
Establishment of electronic access to information derived from the Australian Microbial Resources Study Program
Establishment of electronic access to Australian Collections of Microorganisms to support research
Provide a means of electronic communication for sharing of information between researchers to assist research and foster collaboration
Provide a means to share and report research activity on Australian microbial resources with the national and international research communities
Strengthen collaboration with international organisations such as the WFCC World Data Centre for Microorganisms and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Develop means to stimulate collaboration with industries to exploit the application of Australian microbial resources through the creation of innovative bioindustries

Development of an Australian Microbial Resources Research Network website to report on Network research activity
Establish an annual Network scientific meeting on Australian Microbial Resources and Biodiscovery to share the results of research findings and provide an atmosphere for collaboration and innovative planning
Run specialist workshops for training in modern research techniques