Dr Richard Head, Flagship Director

More than 100 researchers from around Australia gathered in Melbourne recently to share their science - the science which underpins the Preventative Health National Research Flagship.

As a Flagship focussed on improving the health and well-being of Australians through prevention and early detection of chronic disease, our three days of research discussions covered many disciplines and a huge range of topics.

The biannual science retreat brought together our researchers from Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide and Canberra. Our multi-disciplinary team, which includes statisticians, molecular biologists, data analysts, atmospheric researchers and psychologists, all presented updates on their projects. Discussions were enhanced by input from some of our clinical research partners, particularly in the areas of our colorectal cancer research and neurodegenerative disease projects.

It was exciting to meet together to share our Flagship research and to acknowledge our team’s efforts in working in an integrated way across science disciplines, towards a common goal.

A hive of activity at the Preventative Health Flagship Science retreat, featuring Novel Diagnostics Stream Leader Dr Trevor Lockett (left) with Alison Tuckfield, Assistant to the Flagship Director.

Whether it be colorectal cancer, neurodegenerative disease, or another of the chronic diseases affecting an increasing number of Australians, the Flagship’s challenge could not succeed without the efforts of all of our scientists and our partner organisations.

In this edition of the Preventative Health National Research Flagship UPDATE, we introduce you to two of the people who make up the Preventative Health Flagship. 

Our Flagship has recently welcomed leading cancer expert, Professor Graeme Young, as a Flagship Fellow who will assist the Flagship in its fight against one of Australia’s biggest killers, colorectal (bowel) cancer.

We also profile the work of Flagship project leader, Dr Peter Molloy, a CSIRO molecular biologist who is playing a vital role in improving early diagnosis of colorectal cancer, with the ultimate aim of identifying people at risk of the disease before it occurs.

Using everything from innovative information systems, psychology, gene-level biological investigations, screening food for bioactives, environmental monitoring and even exploration of the human gut, Flagship researchers aim to help bring about a healthier Australia through the discovery of new protective foods, diagnostic tools and preventative strategies.  

In this edition, we also continue to highlight examples of the research being undertaken on the Flagship, with a focus on some of our food bioprospecting efforts. 

Food plays an important part in good health, and CSIRO’s role in advancing our understanding of food and its impacts is also reflected in our sponsorship of the International Life Sciences Institute (Southeast Asia Region) first international conference on Nutrigenomics – Opportunities in Asia, to be held in Singapore, December 7-9.

Please go to the story in this newsletter for more details.

Dr Richard Head
Director, Preventative Health Flagship
 

UPDATE Home

Message from the Director

ILSI's first international conference on Nutrigenomics

Flagship welcomes cancer expert as Flagship Fellow 

National SOLVE Roadshow

Prospecting for bioactives

CSIRO gives a gift which could save lives

Preventative Health Presentation for July to September 2005

Meet the Scientist

About this email

The Preventative Health Flagship is a CSIRO initiative and part of the National Research Flagships program that aims to deliver scientific solutions to advance Australia's most important national objectives. One of the largest scientific initiatives ever mounted in Australia, it aligns closely with the Federal Government's National Research Priorities. The initiative brings together our national research resources to deliver breakthroughs in fields ranging from healthcare to light metals and the environment.

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