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Visionary scientist explores the brain and space travelJune 2007
Renowned neuroscientist Dr Alan Finkel AM (BE 1976, PhD 1981) spoke about the importance of brain research at Monash University’s recent Gearing for Success alumni seminar, held at Zinc at Federation Square. Dr Finkel discussed his views about brain research with the University’s young professional alumni. He said that while computers have evolved over the decades, “we don’t yet have a computer powerful enough to replicate the processing power of the human brain which can be powered by a piece of chocolate”. A challenge for scientists, he said, is to find the funding to develop brain research software that will map the entire brain rather than individual neurons. An exciting initiative, the Blue Brain Project, aims to do just that, however it will take more than 10 years to complete. “The Blue Brain Project will require new generations of super computers. These kinds of research projects depend on funding from two sources: governments and philanthropists.” Dr Finkel said advanced information technology will allow scientists to understand the more mysterious functions of the human brain, such as different forms of emotion. Dr Finkel also spoke about his upcoming adventure onboard the first commercial flight into outer space, scheduled for 2009. He showed an animated video of his flight: a 7-8 minute journey some 360,000 feet above Earth. The Virgin Galactic craft, he explained, is very simple and made with very few parts resulting in a more reliable space shuttle. This contrasts with the many times more complex NASA space shuttles, some of which have ended in disaster. “Simplicity is next to godliness,” he said. Dr Finkel is founder of Axon Instruments, a world-class supplier of electronic and robotic devices. He is also the first Monash University graduate to be appointed a Chancellor of the University, commencing in this role in January 2008. Links: |
