An independent financial investigation is underway at Phosphagenics. [ + ]

AusBiotech was among the 27 member-based business organisations that have been awarded grants to help them expand their networks in Asia. The grants were provided under the Australian Government’s inaugural Asian Century Business Engagement plan and announced by the Hon Kelvin Thomson, Parliamentary Secretary for Trade, last Friday. [ + ]

Kevin Rudd’s new cabinet, sworn in yesterday, will see Kim Carr return to take up the industry and innovation and higher education portfolio. [ + ]

Taste and fertility may seem like two completely unrelated areas, but according to scientists at the Monell Chemical Senses Center, two proteins involved in oral taste detection also play an important role in sperm development. [ + ]

It is well known that the toxins of the cane toad are often deadly when ingested by predators. Researchers from Charles Darwin University (CDU) have found that one such predator is the dwarf freshwater crocodile, whose population in northern Australia is diminishing as a result. [ + ]

Nano and laser technology packed into small device tests antibiotic treatment in minutes. [ + ]

For the first time, scientists from the Florida campus of The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) have identified small molecules that allow for complete control over a genetic defect responsible for the most common adult onset form of muscular dystrophy. [ + ]

The Australian Government has released 15 Strategic Research Priorities as part of a process to establish a long-term vision for Australian research. [ + ]

Chemists have discovered that an ‘impossible’ reaction at cold temperatures actually occurs with vigour, which could change our understanding of how alcohols are formed and destroyed in space. [ + ]

AmpliPhi, the US bacteriophage company which merged with Australia’s Special Phage Services last year, has raised $7m in a private placement. [ + ]

REVA Medical (ASX:RVA) has commenced recruitment for the Australia/New Zealand arm of its CE Mark trial for ReZolve 2, a bioresorbable cardiac scaffold. [ + ]

Genetic differences between people who develop allergies and those who don’t have been identified. [ + ]

The report ‘Inspiring industry to inspire Australia’ has been released, highlighting 15 industry initiatives that are fostering an appreciation of science in schools, communities and the workforce, and its potential to improve our world. [ + ]

A Bill was yesterday introduced into parliament to jointly legislate for quarterly credits for companies entitled to the refundable 45% R&D Tax Incentive and to enact the $20 billion turnover cap for companies to be eligible for the 40% non-refundable R&D tax offset, as announced as part of the government’s A Plan for Australian Jobs in February. [ + ]

A PhD scholarship for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students has been created by Andrology Australia. [ + ]