SCU gains a technology first in plant genetics

Southern Cross University has become the first organisation in Australia to install a state-of-the-art Pyrosequencer - worth $200,000 - that will allow researchers to discover variations in plant DNA. The new instrument will be used by SCU's Centre for Plant Conservation Genetics and further strengthen the capacity of the group to support research on biodiversity assessment, agriculture and forestry.

Professor Robert Henry, Director of the Centre for Plant Conservation Genetics, said the pyrosequencing facility will allow DNA to be analysed at extremely high throughput rates compared to other instruments available.

"The Centre utilitises the very best equipment that new technology can offer. The purchase of the Pyrosequencer allows the Centre to be at the cutting edge in terms of scientific capability in the plant genetics area," Professor Henry said.

SCU's Vice Chancellor, Professor John Rickard, said the acquisition of such technologies confirmed that the research facilities at SCU were of international standard.

"Our investment in innovative methods and equipment allows us to be internationally competitive and at the leading edge in plant genetics research - a great achievement for a regional university," Professor Rickard said.

The Pyrosequencer was installed recently by the Melbourne company Millennium Science Pty Ltd, which will provide ongoing technical support to the facility.

* Media please note: a photo of the equipment is available on request.

For further details, please contact Ms Emma Evans, Centre for Plant Conservation Genetics, on (02) 6620 3356 or Mr Robin Osborne, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Phone: (02) 6620 3039 Mobile: 0418 431 484

Email: rosborne@scu.edu.au