Two Flinders research projects that hold the promise of improvements to crime scene forensics and longer life for fibreglass pipes have won a total of $60,000 from the State Government.
Dr Youhong Tang (pictured) and Dr Shanan Tobe were among five South Australian early career researchers to share in $135,000 of funding announced by Minister for Science and Information Economy Gail Gago as part of the Premier’s Research and Industry Fund – Catalyst Research Grants program.
“This program is important in supporting young researchers to remain in South Australia. The grants help researchers build their skills and relationships with relevant industry while helping them to find solutions to complex and significant problems,” Ms Gago said.
Dr Tang, from the School of Computer Science, Engineering and Mathematics, will receive $30,000 to work with RPC Pipe Systems to produce a range of lightweight, high-strength fibreglass pipes, improving durability in harsh conditions.
Dr Tobe, from the School of Biological Sciences, will receive $30,000 to work with Forensic SA to develop a test that will improve identification techniques linking microbes found on a person’s hand to evidence in a criminal investigation.
“These are outstanding young Flinders researchers engaged in solving real-world problems,” said Flinders Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor David Day.
The successful recipients were selected by an independent panel made up of representatives from each of South Australia’s three universities.
For more information on the Catalyst Research Grants, please follow the link.