[DIYbio] Re: Perth (Australia) Group

Hi Leo,

Maybe it's too strong to call each a diyBio/makerspace, but

At UWA

I'm running a small group of students who are working on building an diy automated incubator+microscope with the goal of monitoring cell growth in developmental and synthetic bio. I'm also trying to pull off some diy tissue decellularisation + monitoring with an optical coherence microscopy system.

There is always SymbioticA - quite known in the bioart space (see Nathan above).

UWA has a makerspace: http://www.web.uwa.edu.au/engage/innovation-quarter/current-prototypes#new_div_2830652

They are running a few bio related projects.

UWA is also ramping up bioprinting (less diy, more professional research)

Another student group is working on a project similar to the stanford foldscope: http://www.foldscope.com/ , going around schools.

The problem I see is that there is a disconnect between higher research and students, and students and 'citizen' scientists.

I'm trying to help solve this to some extent. This is part of the agenda of the new uwa bioengineering program, so there is hope.

I think a lot has to do with lack of awareness through social / web media. (I've applied for both free uwa and externally funded web space a few months ago, but it's taking quite a while)

Many of these projects have started only this year, with the exception of SymbioticA, so it will take some time to establish a good presence.

I know diyBio is supposed to be somewhat decentralised from university, but so far it's been much easier finding space, money and participants here.

BTW, there is an open day on the 14th Aug, if you want to check out all of these.

With biohack academy, it looks like it is quite intense and quite pricey (~4k euro + 500 per person). And it is held right in the middle of when I am supposed to submit my phd. 

I will apply for funding, hopefully to waive most of out of pocket expenses. Or alternatively, I'll see if we can do a 'lite' version.

Cheers,

Philip

On Thursday, 28 July 2016 19:17:14 UTC+8, Leo Mason wrote:

Hi philip.
I am definitely interested in a meetup soon and would also be super keen on a biohack academy workshop if we can get it happening in perth.

Interesting you say there are a few groups here as I've only found one at the artifactory and been to a single meeting.
Like you say it would be a good idea to all team up/collaborate as i dont think its very organised here yet.
Could you post links to the other diybio/maker spaces so i can check it out?
Cheers