DNA of the common Black Rat (Rattus rattus) has shed light on the history of the spread of rats, people and diseases around the globe.

High performance computing is stimulating collaborative research across state - and country - borders. [ + ]

Nature reports that a peer reviewer leaked an unfavourable report on diabetes drug Avandia to manufacturer. [ + ]

A Monash University PhD student has developed a new technique that could revolutionise treatment for Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injuries and nerve damage.

A seismologist from The Australian National University (ANU), whose work could help forecast the damage path of future earthquakes, has been honoured by one of the world’s top scientific organisations.

The International Organisation for Standardisation (IOS) and its partner the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) have published a new guide on the vocabulary of metrology, the science of measurement and its application.

Australian biotech companies are developing a reputation for quality and innovation in Japan — the second largest biotechnology market in the world. With the Japanese biotechnology market and related industries expected to grow to $260 billion by 2010, The Australian Trade Commission (Austrade) is seeking more businesses to take advantage of Australia’s standing with its largest trading partner.

The Dean of the Faculty of Science and an eminent medical researcher are among four UNSW academics named on the 2008 Australia Day Honours List.

Elusive pancreatic stem cells found in adult mice, Belgian researchers say. [ + ]

Jock Findlay becomes an AO in this year's honours list. [ + ]

Genomic analysis shows Polynesians and Micronesians have little genetic relation to Melanesians. [ + ]

International consortium announces '1000 Genomes Project' to produce most detailed map of human genetic variation. [ + ]

Howard Florey researchers say mental and physical stimulation delays onset of dementia in Huntington's mice. [ + ]

Results from UK testing show Biosignal Ltd compounds have substantially outperformed the industry standard product glutaraldehyde against harmful sulphur reducing bacteria (SRB).

Immunoregulatory T-cells wane with age in some people, triggering type 1 diabetes. [ + ]