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May 2025

In this issue

Our next generation of sensing scientists

From mine sites to space sites

Three early career research scientists share their work creating new sensor technologies for ore sorting, adapting mining technologies for biosecurity screening, and recovering extraterrestrial resources for future space exploration.

Mineral of the month

Sphalerite: a treasure trove of critical elements

Professor Karin Olson Hoal, visiting Fullbright scholar from Cornell University, tells us about the mineral sphalerite, a beautiful and complex treasure trove of zinc and other critical elements

In case you missed it

Critical Minerals R&D Hub launches international scholarship program

Are you interested in furthering your career with a focus on critical minerals research? Check out this scholarship opportunity to take it international!

R&D program for SMEs to advance AI, digital tech innovation ideas

The free eight-week program connects Aussie SMEs with the science, data and people they need to turn good ideas into investable R&D projects

Even as emissions level off, atmospheric CO₂ is growing faster than ever. Here’s why

Atmospheric CO₂ concentrations are surging, even as emissions level out. Natural carbon sinks are showing signs of faltering as we continue to emit CO₂

A fish frozen in time: ancient fossil reveals colour, last meal, and a parasitic hitchhiker

A stunningly detailed fish fossil from McGraths Flat reveals its last meal, a hitchhiking parasite, and even its original colours

In the news