ABC News Daily

Adam Spencer on the CSIRO job cuts

5 snips
Nov 23, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Adam Spencer, a science communicator and ambassador for mathematics at the University of Sydney, dives into the recent CSIRO job cuts. He highlights the critical role of CSIRO in driving innovation through inventions like Wi-Fi and polymer banknotes. Adam emphasizes the dangers of underfunding, which threatens ongoing research and discourages future scientists. He warns of a potential brain drain as talented individuals look abroad for better opportunities, and argues that investing in science is essential for economic resilience and leadership.
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INSIGHT

CSIRO’s Everyday Impact

  • The CSIRO produces everyday inventions like polymer banknotes, Aerogard and Wi‑Fi from broad scientific research.
  • Its mix of basic and applied work makes Australia 'match fit' for 21st century challenges.
INSIGHT

Cuts Break Research Pipelines

  • Cutting scientific roles breaks long-running research pipelines that can't be paused and restarted without loss.
  • Staff departures create years‑long gaps and permanently shelve some projects, multiplying impact beyond budget lines.
ADVICE

Fund Strategic Science Roles

  • Prioritise funding where scientific capability meets national need rather than short‑term savings.
  • Maintain investment to hire new computational and AI talent as research evolves.
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