The human brain is a complex system: the most sophisticated machine that science has ever encountered. For thousands of years, its workings have been locked in obscurity. Today, we are discovering just how much we have still to learn.
Some of Australia’s leading experts in brain science and technology shared their work with Australia’s decision makers as part of the Parliamentary Friends of Science forum this week.
Delivered in partnership with the Australian Academy of Science, the event coincided with ‘Brains on the Hill’ – an initiative to promote the value of a more coordinated and better funded brain science sector in Australia.
A public forum, hosted by Questacon in Canberra, saw our experts sharing insights on the way brain science was shaping new and innovative technologies; the potential applications of enhanced artificial intelligence and our growing capabilities in processing and analysing big data; and the latest developments being made in diagnosing, treating and preventing brain disorders and disease.
An evening panel discussion for Parliamentarians saw the ethics of these new technologies explored; the advantages of a better coordinated research effort in brain science; and the potential role for Australia in shaping the future of this fascinating scientific field.
STA would like to thank the inspiring speakers who took part – Professor Linda Reynolds, Dr Isabell Kiral-Kornek, Associate Professor Adrian Carter, Professor Michael Breakspear, Professor Andre van Schaik, and our Session Chair Dr. Bernadette Fitzgibbon.
Thanks also to the Academy of Science, the Australian Brain Alliance and Questacon for their involvement in this great event – and to those who attended the public forum in Canberra and followed along online.
Parliamentary Friends of Science events are held regularly, sign up to our newsletter and follow us on Twitter and Facebook to keep up to date!
