Alan Finkel
Credit: Frank Lindner
The founder of Australia's newest science magazine, COSMOS, has been recognised in the Australia Day honours list on 26 January 2006.
Dr Alan Finkel was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for service to biomedical science, particularly through the design and manufacture of a range of electronic instruments, and for his support of medical research and science education.
He was the founder and former chief executive of Axon Instruments Inc, a Melbourne and California-based scientific equipment manufacturer with an international reputation for high-quality drug discovery and genomic research tools.
While working as a postdoctoral researcher at the John Curtin School of Medical Research in Canberra, he invented and built an electronic device that allowed scientists to measure currents flowing into previously inaccessible nerve cells in mammals, making possible new measurements about brain and smooth muscle function. This invention became the foundation product for Axon Instruments, which was recently acquired by the much-larger U.S. biotechnology company, Molecular Devices Inc.
Dr Finkel has since switched his attention to science publishing and education, with the establishment of COSMOS magazine and an annual 'boot camp' for talented researchers in neuroscience. Known as the Australian Course in Advanced Neuroscience (ACAN), "it's a way to give something back to Australian neuroscience," he said.
It mixes the best international neuroscientists with the best students, all in the delightful setting of Queensland's North Stradbroke Island. The course was an instant success: "They worked hard, enjoyed themselves, made professional contacts and absorbed knowledge at a rate they never anticipated," Dr Finkel said. "They've gone back to their labs and universities excited and inspired, and we expect that they will be the teachers and leaders of the future in Australian neuroscience."
COSMOS is the biggest-selling Australian popular science magazine. Published six times a year, it marries engaging, provocative articles by excellent writers with stunning photography and illustrations. COSMOS is available at newsagents and bookstores in Australia and New Zealand, and via subscription.
Dr Alan Finkel is available for interview.
