The Federal and Western Australian Governments have announced $1.47 million in joint funding for the John de Laeter Centre for Isotope Research (JDLC) at Curtin University.

 

State Science and Innovation Minister, John Day, said the centre provided access to world-class precision instruments and was a research provider of choice for many resource companies in the State.

 

“The cutting-edge analytical techniques available at JDLC support the important work across the resources, environment, water and forensic sectors,” Mr Day said.

 

“For example, JDLC researchers have improved trace element detection techniques to reduce the wait time on the forensic analysis of hair samples from three weeks to three days. This allows WA Police to solve crimes within the community considerably faster.

 

“Other significant JDLC research includes identifying new ways to find oil, using carbon isotope and improving the screening of contaminants in domestic water supplies.