Science & technology

03 April 2020

Quantum computing at the nanoscale

The challenges are so enormous there are quantum computing sceptics who doubt the technology is even possible. That only makes the advances happening at the Sydney Nanoscience Hub even more remarkable.

03 April 2020

COVID-19 pandemic set to peak in several days in Australia

New University of Sydney research has revealed that Australia is nearing the COVID-19 pandemic peak. It also showed that 8,000 - 10,000 people are expected to fall ill with the virus over the course of the pandemic.

02 April 2020

'Tequila' powered biofuels more efficient than corn or sugar

The plant better known for making tequila requires no irrigation and produces comparable or better yields of ethanol than sugar or corn. Economic analysis shows a first-generation crop will need government support to kickstart an industry, researchers say.

01 April 2020

Foundational step towards a quantum internet

A team of quantum engineers has shown that atoms held in optical cavities - tiny boxes to hold light - could be foundational to the creation of a quantum internet. Their work is published this week in Nature.

30 March 2020

How to survive the pandemic with your kids at home

Professor Mark Dadds, director of the Sydney Child Behaviour Research Clinic, has some tips for staying sane and getting along during the extended lock down.

27 March 2020

COVID-19: the genetic quest to understand the virus

Professor Edward Holmes is at the forefront of the scientific race to understand SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 in humans. This week he has contributed to two important papers, one in Nature, the other in Cell.

25 March 2020

Greater social distancing could curb COVID-19 in 13 weeks

A University of Sydney data study from the Faculty of Engineering has revealed that social distancing must be adopted by at least 80 percent of the Australian population to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

23 March 2020

DNA riddle: how cells access data from 'genetic cotton reels'

Research has revealed the role played by motor protein CHD4 that allows the DNA to remodel when information is needed - and it will help us understand diseases connected to when that process goes wrong.

19 March 2020

First map shows global hotspots of glyphosate contamination

Glyphosate, or Roundup, is under scrutiny because of possible impacts on human health and ecosystems. Here Federico Maggi and Alex McBratney present the world's first map detailing contamination hotspots of the controversial herbicide.

13 March 2020

The Cone of Shame makes pets miserable

Global survey of pet owners reveals the Elizabeth collar or Cone of Shame impacts negatively on their pets. Researchers recommend vets find alternatives where possible.