University of Newcastle

11/05/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/06/2024 23:28

World’s top scientists gather in Newcastle to advance energy and innovation

World's top scientists gather in Newcastle to advance energy and innovation

Tuesday, 5 November 2024

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This week Newcastle welcomes more than 800 eminent scientists from 42 different countries, including two Nobel laureates, for the fifth International Conference on Emerging Advanced Nanomaterials (ICEAN 2024).

Hosted by the University of Newcastle's Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN), ICEAN 2024 is set to position Newcastle as a global nexus for pioneering research and collaboration in advanced nanomaterials.

The event will spotlight innovation in hydrogen, clean energy, healthcare, and advanced materials through a diverse lineup of themed discussions, expert presentations including Nobel Laureate Lectures, 10 plenary talks, 45 keynote and more than 300 invited lectures.

Co-organised with IIT-Bombay, India; and Pusan National University, South Korea, the event will foster an international exchange of ideas that will inspire new research and industry applications in the region and beyond.

ICEAN 2024 will be chaired by Professor Ajayan Vinu, the Laureate Professor and Founding Director of GICAN at the University of Newcastle.

Professor Vinu said the Conference aimed to advance cutting-edge research in nanotechnology, particularly in areas critical to the global energy transition.

"This is an exceptional opportunity for Newcastle to not only showcase our leadership in nanotechnology but also foster global collaboration on some of the most pressing challenges in energy, environment, and health," Professor Vinu said.

"ICEAN 2024 will attract prominent experts in fields like hydrogen and clean energy who are actively advancing sustainable solutions. This event will be pivotal for accelerating advancements in materials science and fostering partnerships that can drive impactful change on a global scale."

As Newcastle embraces its role in Australia's clean energy transition, ICEAN 2024 is expected to drive local engagement with global science leaders, attract investment, and inspire new technological innovations that benefit the region.

Through its research, the University of Newcastle continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting the Hunter Region by spurring energy innovation and economic growth.

"Hosting ICEAN 2024 in Newcastle reflects the University of Newcastle's commitment to pioneering research and our vision to shape a sustainable future for our region," Professor Vinu said.

"The ICEAN conference has grown substantially over the years, serving as a premier platform for knowledge exchange, scientific innovation, and strategic collaborations. By bringing together interdisciplinary experts, ICEAN 2024 will continue to inspire breakthroughs that contribute to sustainable development and technological progress.

"We are excited to see the knowledge-sharing and collaboration that will emerge from this week of high-calibre discussions," Professor Vinu said.

Hunter school students will have a unique opportunity to participate in interactive session delivered by two Nobel Prize winners: Professor Moungi Bawendi (2023 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry) and Professor Joachim Frank (2017 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry).

The University of Newcastle is committed to supporting and inspiring the next generation of curious minds in science. School students will have the chance to ask questions, hear about the experiences that shaped the careers of eminent scientists', and learn how curiosity, perseverance, and innovation can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Chief Executive Officer Jeremy Bath said City of Newcastle is proud to sponsor the ICEAN 2024 event.

"City of Newcastle is committed to fostering innovation, sustainability, and scientific progress," Mr Bath said.

"This conference not only highlights our region as a hub for cutting-edge research but also strengthens global collaboration in fields that address critical environmental and technological challenges.

"We are especially excited about engagement of Nobel Laureates and other top leaders in the field of nanotechnology with our local schools, offering students a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of nanotechnology and sustainable innovation. This inspiring initiative introduces young minds to the potential of scientific discovery and encourages them to envision their role in shaping a sustainable future.

"We are thrilled to contribute to an event that brings world-leading experts to Newcastle and supports City of Newcastle's vision for inclusive, sustainable growth and I look forward to seeing the powerful impact this gathering will have on the future of nanotechnology and clean energy solutions."

The conference will be held at the NEX, Newcastle from Monday 4 November to Friday 8 November 2024.

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