Researchers from Flinders University and the SA Museum will have increased scope to work together under an agreement signed by the two organisations today.

Flinders and the Museum will enhance their research opportunities by collaborating on funding applications and by jointly undertaking projects that draw on their respective strengths.

Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) – signed by Flinders’ Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Professor David Day (pictured, left), and Museum Director, Professor Suzanne Miller (pictured, right) – the two organisations will jointly fund scholarships for higher research degree students and research positions in areas of mutual interest. The MOU also facilitates reciprocal access to libraries and research facilities.

Professor Day said the MOU “further strengthens our relationship with the SA Museum and will underpin an expanded collaborative research effort”.

“In bringing our respective research strengths together in funding applications to the Australian Research Council, for example, we hope to increase our success rate and broaden the nature and scope of the projects on which we can work together,” Professor Day said.

Flinders and SA Museum have undertaken a number of joint research projects in the past with current examples including investigating the response of the endangered Slater’s Skink to changing environmental conditions in Central Australia in a bid to discover information that might aid the lizard’s conservation. Another joint project is examining ways in which the risk of extinction to five endangered fish species in the Murray-Darling Basin – which have been hard hit by extended drought and environmental degradation – can be reduced.

Professor Miller said “there has been a very good relationship between the South Australian Museum and Flinders University for several years with many highly successful joint research projects”.

“The Museum is delighted that we are now formalising this relationship and is looking forward to strengthening our partnership with the University, with stronger ties in science, public programs and events. We look forward to a very rewarding partnership with Flinders University,” Professor Miller said.

The MOU will also provides for potential opportunities to jointly market, promote and sponsor lectures, seminars and exhibitions.