The University of Melbourne has launched its new Centre for Neural Engineering, aimed at building a more complete understanding of the human brain and the diseases that effects the central nervous system. 

 

Federal Innovation Minister Senator Kim Carr described the Centre as a ‘momentous undertaking’ that will make an invaluable contribution to a broad field of research. 

 

“Through this Centre, Australia will be in the box seat for developing new brain-machine interfaces that can do anything from helping quadriplegics use computer systems to enhancing computer games and entertainment,” Senator Carr said.

 

The system was established through a $17.5 million research infrastructure grant from round 2 of the Federal Government’s Education Investment Fund (EIF).

 

Launching the Centre on behalf of the Government, Senator Jacinta Collins said the study of neural engineering in a purpose-built facility will do far more than just improve scientific and research endeavours.

 

“It will encourage our finest researchers to delve into advanced scientific modelling, complex data processing, and the development of autonomous systems,” she said.

 

“There is great potential for the work of this centre to inspire and improve the lives of all Australians – indeed, its reach will be truly global.”

 

Senator Carr said the Centre’s director Professor Stan Skafidas has a brilliant international reputation for his work in the development of microelectronics, wireless communication and other communication systems.

 

Nobel Laureate and pioneering researcher into the nature of nerve cells, Professor Bert Sakmann of the Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology (Heidelberg, Germany) participated in the opening, illustrating the international interest in Australia’s work in this field.

 

For more information on the Government’s commitment to research infrastructure, visit www.innovation.gov.au/ResearchInfrastructure