UQ Ideas Forum 2024

On 18 August 2024, during National Science Week, the Queensland Brain Institute (QBI) hosted the UQ Ideas Forum in collaboration with the Institute of Molecular Bioscience (IMB) and the Australian Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN). 

Year 10 students from the Queensland Academy of Science Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) and Brisbane Grammar School were invited to attend a panel discussion with experts from the three Institutes.

 The theme for this year's Ideas Forum was 'Will genetic engineering reshape humanity?', inspired by the National Science Week 2024 theme 'Species Survival: More Than Just Sustainability'. 

The panel discussion sparked insighful conversations and lively debate among researchers and school students about the immense potential of genetic engineering, the associated ethical dilemnas, and where these opportunities and challenges may lead humanity in future. The engaging discussions and powerful presentations made for a thought-provoking day, and a wonderful opportunity for our researchers to build connections with the next generation of scientists. 

The panel included Professor Timothy Bredy from QBI, Dr Daniel Hwang from IMB, Associate Professor Jessica Mar, from AIBN. The panel discussions were facilitated by energy expert and science commentator, Dr Joel Gilmore. 

The winning team's genetic engineering solution explored modifying Eucalyptus trees to absorb carbon dioxide and reduce global warming. Erica Le, Khyati Mehta and Seoirsin Greer from QASMT were awarded an internship at one of the three UQ Institutes of their choice, which will take place over their 2023-2034 summer holidays. 

Watch the event below: