15 years of recognising the impact of innovative technology with ANSTO

2025 will mark 15 years of ANSTO’s partnership with the Australian Museum to deliver the ANSTO Eureka Prize for Innovative Use of Technology. We caught up with Director of ANSTO’s Environment Research and Technology Group, Dr Karina Meredith, to learn more about the work ANSTO does and discuss why it is so important to recognise the impact of innovative use of technology through a Eureka Prize.

ANSTO is Australia’s nuclear centre of excellence. How does ANSTO use nuclear science to benefit everyday Australians?

Innovations in technology are powerful tools to help us improve our world. They can be applied to benefit human health, protect the sustainability of our environment and contribute to a net zero future. They enable the production of advanced materials and bolster Australian industry.

Because of their great sensitivity, nuclear techniques are particularly powerful in addressing questions at the molecular and atomic level.

ANSTO is the home of Australia’s expertise in nuclear science and technology with the operation of the OPAL multi-purpose reactor and a suite of scientific infrastructure that is available for research purposes. We also have considerable expertise in using these techniques that is shared with hundreds of researchers who use ANSTO’s scientific infrastructure every year.

Can you tell us a little bit more about ANSTO’s contributions to research in the nuclear science space? Can you share some examples of how nuclear science has been used to develop innovative technology solutions at ANSTO?

ANSTO undertakes its own research in human health, environment and nuclear materials. Innovations that came from these disciplines including a “chelator” technology used as a powerful molecular imaging agent to diagnose disease, evaluate response to treatment and can be used as an innovative radiation therapy for difficult to treat cancers. Research on materials used in the nuclear sector led to the development of a software application that predicts the service life of parts in industrial plants. Experts in measuring radiation developed an innovative detection and imaging system. Environmental scientists at ANSTO have improved the sensitivity of radiocarbon dating to be able to detect a small number of atoms and developed a technology to detect radon in the atmosphere.

These are only a few examples of successful technology transfer driven by nuclear expertise.

The ANSTO Eureka Prize for Innovative Use of Technology is awarded for an innovative application of a new or existing technology that has led to a significantly improved research outcome. Tell us more about the prize purpose and why this prize is important.

ANSTO has proudly supported this award since 2011. It showcases exceptional technological innovations that have a significant practical impact and the potential for broader application within society.

We hope by supporting this prize, we can encourage creativity and ingenuity in the scientific community and of course, amplify and celebrate the hard work of some of Australia’s best researchers.

Dr. Meredith, as the Director of the Environment Research and Technology Group at ANSTO, how has innovation influenced and shaped your work in environmental science?

Innovative use of technology is essential for addressing the environmental challenges we face today. At ANSTO, we use various cutting-edge nuclear tracing technologies that enable us to provide solutions for environmental resource management. As an isotope hydrogeochemist, I work with naturally occurring isotopes to gain insights into the water beneath our feet. Groundwater is a hidden resource that is inherently difficult to measure because it is out of sight. Innovative scientific methods are crucial for visualising and tracing the origins of this water, its flow patterns and how long it has been underground. Without this information, we risk overexploiting our precious water resources.

Who might consider entering the Eureka Prize for Innovative Use of Technology?

This prize is open to a broad range of individuals and teams who have utilised technology in innovative ways to achieve remarkable outcomes. We encourage entries from researchers, scientists, engineers, and technologists across various fields. The key criterion is the innovative application of technology, so anyone who has made a significant impact through their work is welcome and encouraged to apply.

What practical impacts might the broader community observe in their day to day lives due to the types of innovative solutions recognised by this prize?

Over the time of ANSTO’s involvement, there have been some outstanding winners. The most inspiring part is the real-world impact they can have.

For example, the 2023 winner, IMAGENDO from the University of Adelaide and OMNI Ultrasound and Gynaecological Care, developed a groundbreaking ultrasound technology that enhances diagnostics for women potentially suffering from endometriosis.

Another notable winner, the 2021 team led by Associate Professor Kristin Carson-Chahhoud, used augmented reality to enhance health communication and promote lung health.

And of course, last year’s winner Associate Professor Aaron McFadyen from Queensland University of Technology, recognised for his innovative work in developing drone management technologies that enhance the safety, efficiency, and utilisation of airspace.

These are just a few examples. Overall, the impact of these innovations is far-reaching.

What excites you most about this space?

As climate change impacts our environment and pressure on environmental resources grow, innovative scientific and technological solutions will be essential for managing these challenges. I am excited to see the application of advanced technologies that have originated from the investment in research and development across various fields. Advancements in knowledge will create the pathways toward a more sustainable future.

To learn more about ANSTO's nuclear science and technology, book a tour to visit Australia's only multi-purpose reactor, OPAL, or visit their website: ansto.gov.au

The Australian Museum Eureka Prizes are the country’s most comprehensive national science awards, honouring excellence across the areas of research & innovation, leadership, science engagement, and school science.