We are delighted to announce Dr Erinn Fagan-Jeffries has received one of nine National Citizen Science Grants. Together with the SA Museum, much of the work will be undertaken in University of Adelaide laboratories, helping to further strengthening ties between the organisations.
Almost $4 million has been allocated in this funding round to nine projects that offer opportunities for the public to make a significant contribution to scientific discovery.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Christian Porter said the grants help to raise community awareness and interest in science, while also providing opportunities for social connection and the development of new skills.
“These grants continue the government’s commitment to making science relevant and accessible to people of all ages across the nation and complements our support for events like National Science Week and institutions like Questacon,” Minister Porter said.
“The citizen scientists will learn new skills, form new networks, receive acknowledgement for their efforts, and receive updates on their participation in specific research projects.
“The work involves the collection or transformation of data in four priority areas: disaster resilience and preparedness; environmental change; cyber security and artificial intelligence; and food and agribusiness. These all have practical applications of benefit to all Australians.”
The funding is being provided over four years and is supported under the Inspiring Australia – Science Engagement Programme (IA-SEP). Competitive grants of between $150,000 and $500,000 are allocated to successful projects that support community involvement and participation in scientific research.
Dr Fagan-Jeffries project includes:
“$479,554 for the Museum Board’s (South Australian Museum) “Insect Investigators” program, which engages community members in biodiversity discovery. Schools and community groups in SA, WA and Qld will monitor a Malaise trap, which passively collects flying insects. They will partner with professional taxonomic scientists to document local insect fauna, and potentially name any new species collected in their traps.”
