April 2010 | Volume 19 | Number 2 | Free Publication

Scholarships help students to soar Story on page 8 VICE-CHANCELLOR

Adelaidean is the offi cial newspaper of the University of . Student choice... It provides news and information about the University to the general public, with a focus on Life Impact. Circulation: 11,000 per month more or less (March to December) Online readership: 140,000 hits per month (on average) A university’s worth, its ‘greatness’, should www.adelaide.edu.au/adelaidean be judged by its value to society. Editor: David Ellis Design: Last month, Deputy Prime Minister At present, the proposed website will only Chris Tonkin announced the development of a website, scope Australia’s 39 universities. This is curious Writers: Candy Gibson building on the MySchool initiative, which aims given the number of independent colleges Robyn Mills to increase transparency and accountability in joining the ranks of private universities and Kate Husband Australia’s universities. TAFEs competing for the tertiary dollar. In South Contributors: Ben Osborne, Mirna Heruc, I welcomed the concept – anything that helps Australia alone, there are 26 degree-awarding Daniel Brooks students gain the best from higher education institutions. Surely, students stand to gain the Cover photo: should be applauded – but this it is tempered most from a more comprehensive review that The Andy Thomas Scholar for 2010, with a hint of caution. extends beyond the publicly funded institutions. James Francis from Kadina, in the University’s School of Mechanical Capturing data that is consistent, evidence- If we are to shine the spotlight on the tertiary Engineering based and genuinely representational and education sector, we should use a wide-angled Photo by Campbell Brodie, courtesy constructive, will likely prove a diffi cult challenge. lens from the outset. of The Advertiser Shifting the focus from primary and secondary Choice of further study is extremely subjective. Deadline for May issue: schooling to tertiary studies is more complicated Students come to university for a myriad Friday 9 April 2010 Do you receive too many Adelaideans? given the absence of standardised testing such of reasons, different for everyone. Broadly Not enough? Want to be added to our as NAPLAN. speaking, we know that prospective students mailing list or taken off? The government has already suggested want a quality academic education with top Contact us to let us know. potential indicators for evaluating Australian quality staff and state-of-the-art facilities. Editorial/Advertising enquiries: universities such as student to staff ratios, We should also make the distinction between Phone: +61 8 8303 5414 Fax: +61 8 8303 4829 graduate skills and outcomes and the quality of perceived prestige and earned reputation. As Email: [email protected] teaching and learning outcomes. a Group of Eight (Go8) University, Adelaide is Mailing address: For a university like Adelaide, internationally justifi ably proud of its long tradition of academic Adelaidean recognised for its extensive research capacity, achievement – a track record, including three Marketing & Strategic Communications, there is a glaring omission relating to research as Nobel Laureates among our graduates, that , a measure of institutional quality. The learning should inspire and be held in high regard by SA 5005 experience in a research-intensive university potential students and the wider community. Australia is unique. It offers a richer, more challenging However, this is not the time to rest on our Printed by: and intellectually stimulating environment to our laurels. Universities must be responsive. When Lane Print & Post students at all levels. it comes to student enrolment, we undertake Distribution: Ensuring that research achievement and extensive and ongoing research to improve our Lane Print & Post capacity are core benchmarks of success understanding of what drives student choice and Passing Out Distribution Co. is fundamental to valuing the greatness of to meet changing needs. Registered by Australia Post any university. Nor should students be complacent in their No 565001/00046 decision-making. It is your future. Be proactive and seek out information, ask questions, do your research thoroughly. You are best placed to make the decisions and choices and the more information you have, the better. The My University website (or preferably My Higher Education), equipped with robust and useful data, will provide another tool to inform choice of further study but remember it is just one other piece of information. Such an important life decision deserves much more than a cursory glance at a ready- Adelaidean is printed on Impress reckoner website. Gloss paper which features the following environmental profi le. These comments were originally published in www.dalton.com.au The Advertiser’s EducationNow section.

JAMES A. McWHA Vice-Chancellor and President

2 Adelaidean Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 Contents

First steps are important 4 News In Brief

5 Young researchers of the year

Bone density tests crucial 6 for older women

Taking steps towards 7 cheaper space fl ight

COVER STORY Scholarships help 8 students to soar

Online student Peak health body funds 10 key research services are UNIFIED Science is drawcard for 11 agriculture students Students at the University of Adelaide now have a single website from which they can access all of their student Hawker’s memory lives systems and personal information. 12 on in scholars

Called UNIFIED, the site is a gateway “Today’s students are busier than Young author makes (or portal) to a wide range of services, ever – with study, work, sport and social 13 appeal for library information and resources that events keeping most students on the students need. move. UNIFIED will help students save UNIFIED enables students to use their time if they’re searching for information and email and calendar, watch and listen to accessing resources they need, because 14 Writing on the Wall recordings of lectures, view the list of that information is now in one place. courses they’re taking and the grades UNIFIED can also be customised to suit they’ve received, search the University’s individual students’ needs.” library catalogue and access information Mr Duldig said students were already 15 Our new Fulbright Scholars about loans they’ve made, receive uni providing all-important feedback on news feeds and announcements, and use UNIFIED – “how it’s working for them, what interactive campus maps – with many more else they expect from it and how we can Coming Events services still to come. keep meeting their needs”. 16 Students are able to access all of this “With this kind of feedback, students will and more through a central website with a continue to benefi t greatly from UNIFIED,” single login. Mr Duldig said. UNIFIED was launched on the fi rst day of One student wrote about UNIFIED: “Love Orientation Week (O’Week) and has already this new site! It’s so much better to only been visited tens of thousands of times log in once and have everything I need on by students. that site. Good job! It’s easy to read and “UNIFIED, which in simple terms is a navigate too. Thank you.” portal for students to access a range of Another wrote: “I’m so impressed with services, is a signifi cant change in the way UNIFIED! Why didn’t someone think of we interact with and deliver services to this earlier!” our students,” said Mr Paul Duldig, Vice President (Services and Resources). Students can access UNIFIED via “UNIFIED’s launch means that new the Student Centre webpage or at: students in 2010 are able to benefi t from a http://unifi ed.adelaide.edu.au/ cleaner, simpler, and more relevant way of accessing the information and services they need, helping to make their fi rst University experience a truly positive one. Story by David Ellis

Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 Adelaidean 3 News In Brief First steps are important New students at the University of Adelaide are being guided through the fi rst stages of university life – with the help of a semester-long orientation program and an increasing number of peer networking programs.

Miles Franklin Literary Award The University Student Transition “Transition to university can be a Novels by two Creative Writing staff members at Experience Program (UniStep) is a daunting experience and many students the University of Adelaide have been selected semester-long orientation program that underestimate the signifi cant adjustments on the longlist for the 2010 Miles Franklin began in Orientation Week (O’Week) with that need to be made,” Ms Gault said. Literary Award. traditional O’Week activities focusing on “Research has demonstrated that the Bath Fugues, by Professor Brian Castro, Head of helping students fi nd their way, providing fi rst-year experience, especially the fi rst the Creative Writing program, and Figurehead, opportunities to meet other students, attend weeks, can be pivotal in establishing the fi rst novel by part-time staff member Dr preliminary lectures and participate in a the positive attitudes, approaches to Patrick Allington, have been selected along with range of social activities. learning and motivation that contribute to 10 other works for the longlist. “Reality Bites” sessions were also students’ success. Dr Allington’s novel, published last year, formed offered in O’Week, giving new students “The University of Adelaide has a major part of his PhD in Creative Writing, which the opportunity to learn about transition recognised the importance of this early he completed at the University of Adelaide issues, the university culture, student experience and is committed to developing in 2005. support services and to get information innovative approaches to engage and The Miles Franklin Literary Award is Australia’s and advice about uni life from a panel of support fi rst-year students.” premier literary prize. It is awarded to the novel experienced students. Ms Gault said many of the student of the year considered to be of “the highest UniStep continues throughout the fi rst mentors were students who themselves literary merit and which must present Australian semester with academic and life skills took part in peer mentoring programs as life in any of its phases”. seminars, events and activities. a new student. The shortlist will be announced this month, with A group of more than 135 specially “Peer mentoring programs take the winners of the prestigious award announced trained students have been adding their advantage of the often under-utilised in June. support to new students through peer resource of other students. Experienced networking (mentoring) programs. students are provided with training to April graduation ceremonies “These mentors provide an invaluable develop professional mentoring skills, and source of information, fostering friendship they themselves fi nd the experience very Around 4200 students are expected to graduate across 12 ceremonies in Bonython Hall at the networks and encouraging a sense rewarding,” she said. University of Adelaide this month. of belonging,” said Sandra Gault, Coordinator of the University of Adelaide’s The ceremonies, being held from 12–19 April, feature a number of prominent guest speakers, Transition Unit. Story by Robyn Mills including environmentalist Dr Barbara Hardy AO, former Supreme Court Judge the Hon. Ted Mullighan QC, arts administrator Libby Raupach OAM, Chair of Economic Development Board Mr Bruce Carter, and former Education Minister and current Chair of the Don Dunstan Foundation the Hon. Greg Crafter AO. www.adelaide.edu.au/student/graduations

Distinguished Alumni Awards – nominations Do you know someone worthy of consideration for the University of Adelaide’s Distinguished Alumni Awards? Nominations for 2010 Distinguished Alumni Awards are currently open. The awards recognise alumni who have enhanced the reputation of the University of Adelaide and who have either: • Given outstanding service to the community; or • Made an outstanding contribution in their chosen fi elds. Previous winners of the award include Nobel Prize Laureate Dr J. Robin Warren (1996), science and environment educator and advocate Dr Barbara Hardy (2009), and medical pioneer Dr Basil Hetzel (1995). To download a nomination form or receive more information, please visit: www.alumni.adelaide.edu.au/daa Applications close 5.00pm Friday 30 April.

4 Adelaidean Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 RESEARCH

Young researchers of the year

University of Adelaide researchers have won two of the fi ve categories in the inaugural Scopus Young Researcher of the Year Awards.

Presented last month by Senator Kim Professor Bradshaw’s signifi cant Professor Sanders established South Carr, Federal Minister for Innovation, conservation achievements include Australia’s fi rst dedicated clinical and Industry, Science and Research, the awards successful changes to fi shing practice, experimental electrophysiology laboratories aim to recognise and encourage Australia’s to help conserve endangered grey nurse and group, attracting clinicians and best researchers aged 40 and under, sharks following his fi ndings on threats researchers from around the world. It is judged by their research output, the impact to the species; and work detailing the recognised as a leading training centre for of their research and other contributions. link between loss of natural forest cover electrophysiologists. Professor Corey Bradshaw won the Life and increased fl ood risk, which has Professor Sanders and team are at the Sciences and Biological Sciences category been used in key international reports international forefront in their research and Professor Prash Sanders won the aimed at helping governments shape on the understanding and treatment of Medicine and Medical Sciences category conservation policy. rhythm disturbances affecting the heart, of the awards. He has published 140 scientifi c papers particularly atrial fi brillation. Up to 300 Another two University of Adelaide and book chapters since completing his patients every year at the RAH benefi t researchers, Professor Tanya Monro and PhD just 10 years ago, is Senior Editor from his revolutionary new treatments Associate Professor Frank Grützner, were of the journal Conservation Letters, for atrial fi brillation. also fi nalists in the awards. and established the world’s fi rst major He has published 160 papers in his fi eld, Professor Bradshaw is Director of blog site on conservation research, has won numerous awards, and takes an Ecological Modelling at the University’s ConservationBytes.com. active role in the development of health Environment Institute and holds a joint Professor Prash Sanders, Knapman- care services in the developing world. position with the South Australian Research National Heart Foundation Chair of The Scopus Young Researcher of and Development Institute (SARDI). Cardiology Research at the University of the Year Awards have been established He is a conservation biologist who uses Adelaide, is an internationally recognised by Universities Australia and scientifi c mathematical modelling to understand the heart specialist and Clinical Director of publisher Elsevier. complex interactions between plant and Cardiac Electrophysiology at the Royal animal species within an ecosystem. Adelaide Hospital (RAH). Story by Robyn Mills His research helps solve complex He graduated from the University of conservation problems, including the Adelaide with an MBBS (Honours) in Above left: Professor Corey Bradshaw management of pest species, reducing 1994 and was just 34 when he returned Photo by Chris Tonkin extinction risk and helping preserve to Adelaide in 2005 to take up his Above right: Professor Prash Sanders biodiversity. present positions. Photo by Michael Mullan

Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 Adelaidean 5 HEALTH SCIENCES Bone density tests crucial for older women One of Australia’s leading osteoporosis experts has called on the Federal Government to provide free bone density tests to menopausal women in a bid to save taxpayers millions of dollars each year.

University of Adelaide Visiting Professor He and his colleagues are pushing for Chris Nordin AO says 16,000 people are a free bone density test for women at hospitalised in Australia each year with hip menopause to detect those who are at fractures – most of which he considers are greatest risk of osteoporosis in the future. preventable with diet and lifestyle. “If the risk is high, these women will be Professor Nordin, who has more than 50 given appropriate advice and encouraged years’ experience in his fi eld, was among to take responsibility for their own bone 70 national experts on osteoporosis and health,” he said. nutrition at a recent two-day workshop at “The amount of calcium that people the Adelaide Festival Centre. consume on a daily basis through a Medical experts discussed the normal diet is generally not suffi cient for importance of calcium, Vitamin D, a low- post-menopausal women and as they get salt diet and exercise in the prevention of older they require more Vitamin D as well. osteoporosis and the urgent need for a Supplements may be necessary to prevent national bone density measurement test for osteoporosis and reduce this scourge all women at menopause. of old age.” “There is no public preventive policy Professor Chris Nordin is a Visiting at either State or Commonwealth level, Professor of Medicine and Pathology at despite osteoporosis costing the country the University of Adelaide and an emeritus at least $1 billion each year in the specialist in endocrinology at the Royal management of fractures,” Professor Adelaide Hospital. Nordin said. Organised by the University of Adelaide’s “The indirect costs far exceed Centre of Clinical Research Excellence that fi gure.” in Nutritional Physiology (CCRE) and the Professor Nordin said many women Royal Adelaide Hospital, the Osteoporosis were unaware that their calcium Prevention workshop is believed to have requirements rise sharply once been the fi rst of its kind in the world. they reach menopause, and unless they take more calcium Story by Candy Gibson their bone density will fall. Image by iStock

In 2007, prominent art collector and jazz entrepreneur Kym Bonython, AC DFC AFC, gave the University of Adelaide a special gift – a welded steel sculpture by Bryan Kneale RA. Bonython purchased the work – Dorado (1964) – from London’s prestigious Redfern Gallery. Dorado is a fi ne example of 1960s British modernism. Made partly of found materials, it has been fashioned into a combination of soft organic and hard inorganic shapes both complementing and challenging each other. This work survived the Ash Wednesday bushfi re (which sadly destroyed many other works in Bonython’s collection held in his Mt Lofty residence) and prior to installation in its current home it was during the 1960s and 1970s advised the restored with advice from the artist. University on art purchases. He was instrumental Dorado now forms part of a signifi cant collection of in the acquisition of some of our most precious Mirna Heruc public sculpture on the University’s North Terrace artworks, including Arthur Boyd’s Judges series. Manager, Art & Heritage Collections Campus. It can be viewed from the 1st fl oor of the Generosity of this kind contributes greatly to the Napier Building looking into the internal courtyard. breadth and depth of our collections. If you, too, Above right: Dorado, 1964 This important gift cements a long relationship would like to contribute, please contact Art & welded steel by Bryan Kneale RA between the University and Mr Bonython, who Heritage Collections on +61 8 8303 4031.

6 Adelaidean Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 ENGINEERING Taking steps towards cheaper space fl ight University of Adelaide researchers will help design a hypersonic aircraft as a fi rst step towards cheaper satellite-launching space vehicles.

The University of Adelaide team is part “We’re hoping eventually to be able to The mach 8 fl ight test data will be used of an international consortium granted $5 replace one stage – probably the second to verify ground testing results from wind million under the Federal Government’s – with a scramjet capable of mach 14 or tunnel facilities. By the end of the three- new Australian Space Research Program. 15. That’s the sort of speed necessary for year project, the researchers should be The partners will investigate and space fl ight.” ready to design and fl ight test a scramjet at develop hypersonic scramjet propulsion This fi rst-phase project has two parts: a space fl ight speeds, Dr Doolan said. technology for a future scramjet-based ground test program seeking to extend the The other partners in the program are “access-to-space” industry, rather than just potential of scramjets to mach 14 speeds, University of Queensland, the University conventional rockets. and designing and building a hypersonic of New South Wales, the University of A scramjet is an air-breathing combustion scramjet vehicle with fl ight testing at mach Southern Queensland, University of engine that can fl y faster than the speed 8 to take place at Woomera. Minnesota in the US, and international of sound (mach 1) and is capable of The University of Adelaide team, which aerospace organisations DLR in Germany, hypersonic speeds (faster than mach 5). also includes Associate Professor Ben the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Cost savings can be achieved through the Cazzolato and Dr Laura Brooks, will Agency and CIRA of Italy, as well as engine’s ability to take in air to mix with fuel be taking the lead on investigating a the Defence Science and Technology for combustion. hypersonic vehicle’s dynamics and control. Organisation (DSTO), the Australian Youth “Conventional rockets used to launch “We don’t really yet understand how Aerospace Forum, BAE Systems Australia, satellites into orbit or space shuttles have to control scramjet-powered vehicles Boeing Research and Technology Australia, to carry rocket fuel and oxidiser which in fl ight – how to keep them stable and AIMTEK Pty Ltd and Teakle Composites is very expensive,” said Dr Con Doolan, how to execute a manoeuvre,” said Dr Pty Ltd. Senior Lecturer in the School of Mechanical Doolan. “We’ll be leading the research on Engineering and leader of the University of that aspect.” Story Robyn Mills Adelaide team. “The air-breathing scramjets still need fuel but don’t need the oxidiser, with the potential for substantially reducing the cost per kilogram of transporting payloads into space.” The aim is to produce a hybrid launch vehicle where one stage out of three in a conventional rocket will be replaced with a scramjet vehicle. “Normally the rocket takes the vehicle to the edge of space and then the second and third stages boost its velocity to put it into orbit,” Dr Doolan said.

Main image: Image by Bruno Sersocima Inset: Dr Con Doolan from the School of Mechanical Engineering (far right) and Dr Ian Tuohy from BAE Systems (far left) with students in the control bunker beneath a launch pad at Woomera, prior to the launch of an external burning scramjet

Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 Adelaidean 7 SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarships help students to soar

More than 130 of the best new undergraduate students starting at the University of Adelaide this year are sharing in over $1.5 million worth of scholarships.

The University’s range of scholarships is aimed at supporting top students, including those from rural or disadvantaged backgrounds. Among this year’s scholarship winners was James Francis, 18, from Kadina, who was the 2010 winner of the Andy Thomas Scholarship; and Samantha Iannella, 17, from Mt Gambier, who was one of the recipients of the prestigious Adelaide Undergraduate Scholarships. “Scholarships change lives. They are vital in supporting our students, giving them the best possible chance of gaining a quality educational experience,” said the University’s Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor James McWha. “Scholarships help to take the fi nancial pressure off students. In some cases it means they don’t need to get a job to support themselves while they study, helping them to focus on their education. In other cases it can pay for the essentials of their learning – such as textbooks or a new computer – or to relocate from rural areas to the city. “Scholarships also act as an incentive for students to achieve excellence in their studies. “With our range of scholarships schemes, the University of Adelaide is demonstrating an ongoing commitment to educating students based on their ability, regardless of background.” Last month, the University held a special scholarships presentation ceremony for new students in Bonython Hall. The scholarships provided to new undergraduate students at the ceremony were:

8 Adelaidean Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 • Adelaide Undergraduate Scholarships – $10,000 per year for a maximum of four years to all new University of Adelaide students who receive a TER score of 99.95 (with no bonuses). This year, 24 Adelaide Undergraduate Scholarships were given to new students, with a total commitment from the University of $960,000 over the next four years. • Andy Thomas Scholarship – $6000 per year for a maximum of four years, plus the cost of all Commonwealth contributions (ie, HECS fees) to a maximum of four years. ADELAIDE UNDERGRADUATE ANDY THOMAS The Andy Thomas Scholarship – named SCHOLAR SCHOLAR in honour of University of Adelaide Samantha Iannella, 17, of Mt Gambier James Francis, 18, of Kadina on South engineering graduate and NASA astronaut in ’s south-east, is Australia’s Yorke Peninsula, is the Dr Andy Thomas – is offered each year one of 24 recipients of a prestigious 2010 winner of the prestigious Andy to an outstanding student studying Adelaide Undergraduate Scholarship Thomas Scholarship at the University Aerospace, Mechanical or Mechatronic from the University of Adelaide in 2010. of Adelaide. engineering. The total value of this scholarship is Samantha is studying for a medical James is studying for a Bachelor of approximately $55,000 over four years. degree (Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor Aerospace Engineering at the University, of Surgery) at the University, pursuing pursuing his love of aircraft and • Principals’ Scholarships – $5000 to assist her interests in health care for the aeronautics. with education/living costs for the fi rst benefi t of rural communities. year of a student’s program. He completed Year 12 at Kadina These scholarships are available to She completed Year 12 at Mt Memorial High School and also studied students who have made a signifi cant Gambier’s Grant High School, studying a Year 12 subject at Kadina’s Harvest contribution to their school and to the wider a total of nine Year 12 subjects, starting Christian School. when she was only in Year 10. These community. Students must be nominated “I’ve always had a passion for aviation included dance studies, drama, and by their school principal to be eligible, and so it’s great to be able to study a degree English studies as well as specialist they must obtain a TER of 80 or greater that refl ects that interest,” James says. (including bonus points). maths, maths studies, accounting This year, 109 Principals’ Scholarships studies, physics, chemistry and “As a kid I was always building model have been awarded, with a total psychology. aeroplanes and boats. I earned my glider pilot’s licence by the age of 15 commitment from the University of “I’ve always had an interest in the and my light aircraft licence when I was $545,000. human body, and I’m fascinated by the 16, so I could fl y a plane before I could At the ceremony, the University also human interaction between doctors even drive a car. presented the Adelaide Outstanding and patients. This was one of the Achiever Scholarships International, the reasons I decided to do medicine,” “I’d attended a number of Open Days Adelaide Vietnam Scholarships and the Samantha says. at the Uni of Adelaide and I remember Adelaide Malaysia Scholarships. looking through the jet propulsion “Also, there is a real shortage of Other major scholarships being awarded labs, the sound labs and at the UAVs doctors in country areas. I’m very keen this year include two schemes aimed (unmanned aerial vehicles) being built to do my medical training and return to at encouraging access to university by the students. I thought the odds of the country so I can help do my part for education for students who suffer some me getting into the Aerospace course the community.” form of disadvantage: the Adelaide were probably too high, but I tried Access Scholarships and the Start- Samantha says she is excited about anyway and I’m really thrilled with Up Scholarships. winning an Adelaide Undergraduate the result. Scholarship. www.adelaide.edu.au/scholarships “To get the Andy Thomas Scholarship is “The scholarship means a lot. It will just fantastic,” he says. “Many years ago Story by David Ellis help out fi nancially so much. Moving I went to a lecture Andy Thomas gave from home and relocating to the city, at the uni – it’s an amazing thing that Main photo by Randy Larcombe plus ongoing living expenses – these he’s done with his career, and to receive Photo of Samantha Iannella by David Ellis are very real issues that many students the scholarship named after him is a Photo of James Francis by Campbell Brodie, have to deal with. I’m pleased that fantastic opportunity. courtesy of The Advertiser the scholarship will help to give me a “The scholarship will help to pay for high level of fi nancial support during my living expenses in Adelaide,” says my studies.” James, who has taken up residence at St Ann’s College, North Adelaide.

Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 Adelaidean 9 HEALTH SCIENCES

Peak health body funds key research

Clinical researcher and nuclear medicine technologist Associate Professor Karen Jones has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to medical research by Australia’s leading health funding body.

The University of Adelaide researcher is She was the fi rst nuclear medicine needed to maintain women and children’s one of nine people across the country to technologist in Australia to gain a PhD (in health across their lifetimes; receive a 2010 National Health and Medical 1998) and to date has published 89 peer- Dr Ying Zhang (Discipline of Public Research Foundation (NHMRC) Achievement reviewed papers, 19 editorials and four Health) – $285,000 Public Health Fellowship Award for Career Development. book chapters. to develop policies to help the elderly cope Assoc. Prof. Jones is currently a Chief Four University of Adelaide researchers with the effects of climate change. Investigator on four NHMRC project have also been awarded Training The Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice- grants focused on the role of the gut in Fellowships from 2010-2013 inclusive, President (Research) at the University postprandial hypotension (low blood collectively worth more than $1.25 million. of Adelaide, Professor Mike Brooks, pressure after meals) and the management They are: congratulated the fi ve academic staff on of patients with diabetes. She works in the Dr Peter Psaltis (School of Medicine) their outstanding contribution to medical Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in – $349,487 Biomedical Fellowship at the research in Australia. Nutritional Physiology, Interventions and Mayo Clinic in Rochester, USA, to research “These awards and training fellowships Outcome (CCRE). the role of blood vessel stem cells in are highly regarded and extremely Her award was for the highest ranked causing atherosclerosis; competitive. It refl ects the depth of talent applicant for the NHMRC Clinical Senior Dr Adam Elshaug (Discipline of Public that we have among our researchers and Career Development Award, which provides Health) – $336,170 Public Health Fellowship we look forward to the outcome of their her salary as a four-year fellowship. to work at Harvard Medical School to individual projects.” Over the past 18 years Assoc. Prof. Jones develop and test a framework for the has made signifi cant inroads into the pivotal effectiveness of health care practices; role of the stomach in low blood pressure Dr Lynne Giles (Discipline of Public Story by Candy Gibson (particularly among the elderly) and the Health) – $285,000 Public Health Fellowship management of diabetes. to investigate the social support structures Above: Associate Professor Karen Jones

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10 Adelaidean Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES

Science is drawcard for agriculture students Students enrolled in the new agriculture degree offered by the University of Adelaide have endorsed the revised curriculum, which has a greater focus on science and industry experience.

A total of 39 students started their two former degrees – the Bachelor of Hahndorf resident James Walter lives Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences degree Agriculture, based mainly at Roseworthy, on a farm in the Adelaide Hills and was last month, with classes at both the Waite and the Bachelor of Sciences (Agricultural prompted to apply for the degree to satisfy and Roseworthy campuses. Sciences) taught at Waite. his interest in science, plants and genetics. Students will benefi t from a substantial “It shows that students have endorsed Romy Bennett of Mundulla in the state’s investment in facilities at both campuses a new direction in agriculture education,” south-east comes from a sheep, cattle and to keep them at the forefront of teaching Professor Leigh said. cropping property and said the emphasis and research, according to the Head of A third of the fi rst-year students in the on science in the new curriculum proved the School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, new degree gained TER scores above a drawcard for her: “It is a more appealing Professor Roger Leigh. 80, with one student scoring 96.8 in his degree now and I think the focus on “The University is investing $1 million Year 12 assessment. Up to 30% of the science will broaden our knowledge and per annum in new agricultural research students also come from metropolitan improve our job prospects.” activities at the Waite Campus over the environments. Laura Hammond from the Victorian rural next fi ve years. It is also undertaking a “This underlines the fact that agriculture town of Lindenow has just fi nished a gap major expansion and refurbishment of is appealing to a broad range of students, year and chose the Bachelor of Agricultural the Roseworthy Campus to cater for a from different backgrounds and academic Sciences because it combines both her substantial increase in student numbers ability,” Professor Leigh said. passions: agriculture and science. there. The students in the Bachelor of “All will graduate with very bright job This year’s cohort comprises 25 Agricultural Sciences degree will benefi t prospects because Australia desperately males and 14 females, including one from these changes,” Professor Leigh said. needs skilled people in this area. A degree international student. The Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences in agriculture also offers a diversity of degree combines science with practical career options, which is appealing.” Story by Candy Gibson and industry experience, and includes a First-year student John Swincer has number of interstate fi eld trips as well as grown up in the city but has always been Above: The majority of the 39 students enrolled in the new Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences degree at the University 12-week industry internships. interested in a career that involves both of Adelaide, fl anked by Professor Roger Leigh (far left) and Enrolments for the combined agricultural animals and the land. He said the degree Professor Glenn McDonald degree are as strong as those for the fulfi lled these requirements. Photo by Chris Tonkin

Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 Adelaidean 11 SCHOLARSHIPS

Hawker’s memory lives on in scholars

Four University of Adelaide St Peter’s College, is an Arts/Law student; gifted scholars with inquiring minds and have Alicia, who studied at Trinity College, is already contributed to the wider community.” students have been awarded undertaking a double degree in Chemical Mr Hawker said Charles Hawker was “a Engineering and Science; while Melanie, great Australian who offered his best through the prestigious Charles a former Unley High School student, is his commitment to his country, countrymen Hawker Scholarships studying Law and Health Science. and women and democracy”. Since 1991, the Trustees have awarded “These are values that I hope the scholars for 2010. almost $4 million to 90 young Australians, today take with them into their studies. including a signifi cant number from regional Through his example and these scholarships The Hawker Scholarships, valued at up areas. The seven successful candidates it’s my hope that public service will be to $60,000 over four years, are the most for 2010 were awarded a Charles Hawker included in the career options of recipients.” generous privately funded scholarships Scholarship from a strong fi eld of The Charles Hawker Scholarship available to undergraduate and 280 applicants. perpetuates the memory and commemorates postgraduate students in Australia. “These scholarships have provided the achievements of one of Australia’s most The scholarships are awarded to opportunities for an increasing number of respected pastoral pioneers. Born in 1894 academically gifted students “of principle young Australian students to undertake at Bungaree homestead near Clare in South and character, who are committed to further studies to achieve their full potential,” Australia, Charles Hawker was educated Australia’s future”. said former Speaker of the House of at Geelong Church of England Grammar Seven Hawker Scholarships have been Representatives, Member for Wannon and School and Trinity College, Cambridge. awarded in Australia in 2010, with four of Hawker family member the Hon. David Student, soldier, pastoralist and statesman, the scholars enrolled at the University of Hawker MP. Charles Allan Seymour Hawker died in the Adelaide and resident at St Mark’s College “The Charles Hawker Scholarship is Kyeema air disaster in 1938. in Adelaide. one of the most important in Australia. I University of Adelaide students Sarah commend the Trustees for the contribution For more information, visit: Dickins, Jonathan Hamer, Alicia Hurkmans the scholarship has already made and will www.hawkerscholarship.org and Melanie Johnson were presented with continue to make to the education of a their scholarship certifi cates last month at a number of outstanding young Australians. Above from left: (rear) Hawker Scholar Gigi Cardwell, the function at St Mark’s. “Each of these recipients has already Hon. David Hawker MP, Jaan Butler, Jonathan Hamer, Sarah, a former Mt Gambier High School Madeleine McCloy; (front) Sarah Dickins and Alicia displayed a strong commitment to the ideals Hurkmans, following the 2010 scholarship presentation at student, is studying Law and Science at upon which the Charles Hawker Scholarship St Mark’s College. Absent: Melanie Johnson. the University of Adelaide; Jonathan, from Memorial Trust Fund is founded. They are Photo by Rosey Boehm Photography

12 Adelaidean Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 ALUMNI Alumni PRIVILEGES

Adelaide alumni have access to a range of exclusive benefi ts, services and discounts – and each month we bring you the pick of the bunch for a featured special.

Special Offer of the Month: Win an $80 Haigh’s Chocolate Hamper Young author Haigh’s have been very generous by offering Alumni several chances to win throughout 2010. Enter the new competition to be drawn on 30 April makes appeal for library for your chance to win a selection of premium mouth-watering chocolates. Increase your chances by entering the Meet the public face of the 2010 Barr Smith Library Appeal: other competitions later in the year. highly regarded young author Patrick Allington. The Haigh’s product range varies from tablets of pure chocolate to hand-dipped truffl es and presentation Dr Allington, who has a PhD in Creative Appeal in its efforts to help keep the Library boxes. The most popular items Writing from the University of Adelaide, providing the same resources and support include chocolate frogs, apricot fruits, published his widely praised fi rst novel, that helped me as a student.” champagne and sparkling Shiraz Figurehead, in July 2009. University Librarian Ray Choate said the truffl es and the Australian Collection. He also has a Master of Arts (Politics) heart of the Barr Smith Library’s purpose For details on how to enter, and and Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from the now, and into the future, is the enabling check out the full Alumni Privileges University, and in March was awarded the of outstanding achievement by University Package, logon to: www.alumni. $15,000 Barbara Hanrahan Fellowship as students and staff. adelaide.edu.au/privileges part of the Adelaide Festival Awards. “Our goal is to provide the best possible Figurehead – and the writing process resources in the best possible environment,” behind it – also formed a signifi cant he said. component of his PhD, which he completed “For example, our Special Collections in 2005. area has just undergone a signifi cant Most recently, his novel has been selected upgrade and refurbishment and is now on for the longlist of Australia’s premier literary Level One of the Library – and part of that prize, the Miles Franklin Literary Award. is the University authors collection, which After spending many undergraduate features works by University staff and and postgraduate hours in the Barr Smith students such as Patrick’s. Library, Dr Allington knows the impact “It is my hope that the University it can have on a student’s learning and community can continue to support the Barr subsequent career path. Smith Library Appeal so that many more “I must have borrowed hundreds of books students, like Patrick Allington, go on to see from the Barr Smith Library in my time, so their own works in the Library.” I’m delighted that Figurehead is now on the To give, or to fi nd out more about the 2010 shelves,” Dr Allington said. Barr Smith Library Appeal, please visit: “In the digital age, the Barr Smith www.alumni.adelaide.edu.au/bsl Library remains a vital part of the student experience at the University of Adelaide. Story by Ben Osborne Over the years, it’s the diversity of the Above: Author Patrick Allington in the historic Reading Library’s resources I have most appreciated. Room at the Barr Smith Library I fully endorse the Barr Smith Library Photo by Ben Osborne

Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 Adelaidean 13 STUDENTS Writing on the Wall Students are being asked for their feedback about the University’s new Student Learning Hub on Hughes Plaza, writes Design Studies student Daniel Brookes.

My name is Daniel, and I like graffi ti. And, Permanent markers are supplied so that see what other people are thinking, too.” you know, I’m pretty sure I’m not the only students can write on the boards, graffi ti- The design is an exciting social one who does. style; useful feedback will ultimately inform experiment. Students love defacing things, giving their the fi nal Learning Hub outcome. “We’re not sure exactly what kind of opinions, discussing, debating, making The project was created by third-year comments people will be writing,” said controversy. And when it comes to the new Design students Mara O’Toole, Tin Do, Do, “but we are pretty certain it will be “Learning Hub” – the $35 million project and myself, and funded by the University’s constructive.” being built on Hughes Plaza especially Property Services Department. As well as the consultation wall, the for students – I know a lot of people will “We wanted to make the wall as fun to Project Development staff have assembled want to give their opinion on where those use as possible,” said O’Toole, pointing out a dedicated Student Reference Group, millions are going. Thankfully, a bunch of the use of bright greens and pinks, and the with students who will continually assess Architecture students have come up with large, pixelated typography. the Learning Hub designs through to a solution. The outcome is strongly defi ant of the its completion, as well as an integrated A new student ‘consultation wall’ University’s typical consultation approach. marketing internship program. has been constructed in the Barr Smith Whereas in the past, online surveys, From a student perspective, the new Library, and will provide regularly updated application forms and emails have been the consultation wall heralds the fi rst time in a information on the Hub throughout 2010. traditional student feedback medium, the long time that the University has engaged From concept to completion, the wall design team agreed that a back-to-basics interested students in a practical, hands- will give everyone the chance to provide approach would be more fun and, crucially, on installation. “We’re really grateful for the feedback on the design, from what kind more engaging to students. experience,” said O’Toole. of services are included in the Hub, right “We [as students] don’t always want to fi ll Let’s hope the student feedback will be through to the interior fi nishes. out surveys online… I’m guilty of deleting all equally positive. The installation can be found in front of of those promotional emails,” O’Toole said. the temporary hoardings on level three of The consultation wall is a non-digital, Image courtesy of Daniel Brookes the library. It consists of large fl oor-to-ceiling hands-on installation which encourages This article originally appeared in acrylic boards which spell out ‘WHAT?’, feedback written by hand. As Do points out, the student publication On Dit: and information is printed onto this acrylic. “It’s more personal that way, and you can http://ondit.com.au

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14 Adelaidean Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 SCHOLARSHIPS Our new Fulbright Scholars

University of Adelaide water regulation, water dispute resolution The Manager of Technology and and natural resources management. At Commercialisation with Hydro Tasmania, Mr graduates and affi liates Harvard, Mr Lee also intends to participate in Gamble will spend four months with the US interdisciplinary research on water regulation Government-funded National Renewable will conduct research in and management with the Harvard Water Energy Laboratory (NREL). He will study the the United States on water Security Initiative. integration of renewable energy technology Mr Lee said his experience working on in modern power systems, to support the regulation, particle physics, water litigation had made him aware of development of a renewable energy power renewable energy technology “the urgent need for Australia to consider system and research facility for the Bass alternative approaches to natural water Strait Islands. and the control of feral pigs, regulation and dispute resolution that offer Mr Gamble has a Bachelor of Civil after winning prestigious sustainable outcomes for all Australians”. Engineering and a Masters of Engineering Mr Lee has Bachelor Degrees in Arts Science from the University of Adelaide. Fulbright Scholarships. (Politics) and Law, both awarded with First Associate Professor Steven Lapidge has Class Honours. won the 2010 Fulbright Professional Business/ Graduates Matthew Lee, Lewis Tunstall and Lewis Tunstall is the inaugural winner of Industry Coral Sea Scholarship. Simon Gamble and University of Adelaide the Fulbright South Australia Scholarship, A Program Leader with the Invasive Animals affi liate Steven Lapidge were among 25 which is supported by the South Australian Cooperative Research Centre (IACRC) at the Australians announced as the latest recipients Government and the SA-based universities. University of Canberra, Associate Professor of the major scholarships – worth up to A PhD candidate with the University of Lapidge is also an adjunct lecturer with the $45,000 each – to study in the US over the Adelaide’s School of Chemistry & Physics, Mr University of Adelaide’s School of Animal and next year. Tunstall will undertake research in theoretical Veterinary Sciences. Awarded by the Australian-American particle physics at the University of California “Invasive animals rank only second to land Fulbright Commission, the Fulbright (UC), Berkeley. His research aims to provide clearing as the biggest threat to biodiversity Scholarships give Australian researchers a solution to one of the outstanding problems around the world,” Associate Professor an opportunity to gain an international within the Standard Model of particle physics. Lapidge said. perspective on their research, and to develop “Despite the great success of this theory, Through his Fulbright Scholarship, Associate international networks. there exist a small number of unresolved Professor Lapidge will spend three months Matthew Lee is one of two winners of the issues where the theoretical predictions at the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) prestigious Fulbright Postgraduate Alumni don’t match the experimental results,” said National Wildlife Research Center in Colorado. (WG Walker) Scholarship, which is funded Mr Tunstall, who has a Bachelor of Science He will conduct further research in the area through donations by Fulbright Alumni and (Honours) from the University of Adelaide. of developing sodium nitrite (a common food awarded to the highest ranked scholar His research will lead to increased links preservative) for control of feral pigs. each year. between the theory group at UC Berkeley and www.fulbright.com.au Mr Lee, a solicitor with the South Australian Adelaide, and it will help to boost Australia’s Crown Solicitor’s Offi ce and a tutor at reputation in fundamental science. Above (from left): Fulbright Scholars Matthew Lee and the University of Adelaide’s Law School, Simon Gamble is the Fulbright Tasmania Lewis Tunstall at the University of Adelaide. Not pictured: intends to study at Harvard Law School Scholar, sponsored by the Tasmanian Simon Gamble and Associate Professor Steven Lapidge. focusing on American approaches to Government and the University of Tasmania. Photo by David Ellis

Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010 Adelaidean 15 The University of Adelaide COMING EVENTS

WHEN: 5.30-6.30pm Tuesday 13 April Defrosting Gondwana WHERE: Lecture Theatre 102, Napier How electromagnetic “eyes” are piercing the Antarctic Building, North Tce Campus ice to reveal a former supercontinent’s deepest secrets ADMISSION FREE, RSVP ESSENTIAL email: [email protected] Gondwana was the Earth’s last great “supercontinent” – a vast phone: +61 8 8303 3692 tectonic amalagamation that included Australia, Antarctica and FOR MORE INFORMATION: India juxtaposed in East Gondwana around 500 million years ago. www.adelaide.edu.au/researchtuesdays Although East Gondwana’s amalgamations have been broadly understood for some time, the dense Antarctic ice cap has kept many details well hidden. Research at the University of Adelaide, however, appears to be changing that. Using the remote-sensing technique magnetotellurics, the team Kate Selway is an ARC Australian recently “looked through” the ice to image a massive proposed Post-Doctoral Fellow in the University suture zone extending deep into the Earth’s crust. of Adelaide’s School of Earth and Environmental Sciences. She was named In this fascinating presentation, ARC Post-Doctoral Fellow Dr Kate the 2008 South Australian Young Achiever Selway reveals their fi ndings and explores the ways in which they’ve of the Year for her work in promoting the enhanced understanding of the geological history of our planet. magnetotelluric method.

Lunchtimes at ELDERHALL Student Exchange Fair Adelaide’s favourite lunchtime series of music concerts Are you thinking about studying abroad? The continues in April. Concerts this month include Exchange Fair is designed to give University of performances from Jessica Dean and Anthony Hunt, Adelaide students a glimpse into the international Tessa Miller, Ben Dollman, Graham Strahle and Glenys learning options available to them. Come along March, the Elder Conservatorium Wind Orchestra with and talk to Adelaide Abroad staff, returned Adelaide Conductor Robert Hower, and Dorian Leljak. Abroad students, and overseas visitors from some of www.elderhall.adelaide.edu.au our partner universities. When: 1.10pm every Friday from 9–30 April www.adelaide.edu.au/student/study_abroad Where: Elder Hall, North Terrace Campus, When: 10.00am–2.00pm Tuesday 27 April University of Adelaide Where: Barr Smith Lawns, North Terrace Campus, Northern Lights Cost: Tickets $7, available at the door from University of Adelaide Three of the University of Adelaide’s historic 12.30pm on the day of the concert Cost: Free architectural icons are again featured in this colourful display as part of the offi cial program Fridays Uncorked 2010 of the Adelaide Festival. The National Wine Centre of Australia invites you to When: From dusk until 1.00am, celebrate the end of the week with a series of Fridays daily until Monday 5 April Uncorked. Sponsored by Bremerton Wines (9 April). Where: Mitchell Building, Elder Hall and www.wineaustralia.com.au Bonython Hall, North Terrace Campus When: 4.30pm Friday 9 April Cost: Free – all welcome Where: National Wine Centre of Australia, corner of Haydn’s The Seven Last Words of Christ Hackney and Botanic Roads, Adelaide Cost: Free entry including cocktail food. Performed by the Elder Conservatorium Symphony Wine from $4.50 per glass. Orchestra with conductor Keith Crellin. When: 3.00pm Friday 2 April (Good Friday) Where: St Peter’s Cathedral, King William Road, North Adelaide Cost: Free

MBAAA (MBA Alumni Association) Centre for Automotive Safety Research seminar series Networking breakfast Young Drivers by Research Offi cer Dr Lisa Wundersitz When: any time after 7.30am, fi rst Wednesday Friends of the The Centre for Automotive Safety Research invites of every month University of Adelaide Library you to a series of seminars addressing major topics Where: East Terrace Continental café, in the fi ght to reduce road trauma and highlighting the 6 East Terrace, Adelaide Anthony Steel, author of Painful in daily doses: an anecdotal memoir, in conversation with Ewart Shaw latest research. The MBAAA Executive Committee welcomes contact http://casr.adelaide.edu.au from MBA alumni and current MBA students in other When: 6.00pm for 6.30pm Thursday 15 April Australian states or other countries as to your interest in Where: Ira Raymond Room, Barr Smith Library, When: 4.00pm Wednesday 28 April coordinating or participating in networking gatherings University of Adelaide Where: Art Gallery Auditorium, Art Gallery of South with MBA alumni colleagues living in the same city. Cost: Free and open to the public – Australia, North Terrace, Adelaide Contact the Executive Committee if you are interested gold coin donation invited Cost: Free and we will coordinate contact between alumni in the RSVP: Bookings by Tuesday 13 April to RSVP: Please register your attendance with same city. [email protected] or Leonie Witter on +61 8 8303 4114 or Email: [email protected] phone +61 8 8303 4064 email: [email protected]

16 Adelaidean Volume 19 | Number 2 | April 2010