This new research facility at Macquarie University provides specialized laboratory and administration space for the Department of Biological Sciences. The facility supports invertebrate-based research into biosecurity, specifically the urgent need to support the University’s involvement in developing the ‘Sterile Insect Technique.’ This is an environmentally-sensitive means of defending Australia’s horticultural industries by controlling the Queensland Fruit Fly population through sterility. Other researchers and administrative staff also work in the new facility.
Research is carried out within specific and varied environment-controlled laboratories and special-purpose rooms, designed in relation to each function. The services design is flexible to facilitate changing research requirements and/or upgrades to a higher contamination grade, should it be required.