WHY PHYSICS?

Physics is the fundamental discipline underlying all science and technology. It enables us to increase our understanding of both ourselves and of the universe.

In the 20th century physics gave us: x-rays that made medical imaging possible; lasers and electronics that led to computers and revolutionised world communications; aircraft, radio, television and many other developments that would have been inconceivable just a few generations ago. In the 21st century the challenges facing humankind are more daunting than ever, but so are the opportunities to discover and develop totally new technologies. Some of these will be based on quantum mechanics, some on antimatter, and others still, on phenomena as yet undiscovered and perhaps unimaginable.

We will only be able to rise to the challenges of our century by improving our knowledge of the natural world. For example, in addressing climate change, we must better understand the physics of the atmosphere and develop new clean sources of energy. In medicine, further development of new procedures, such as as positron therapy for cancer traetment, will not be possible without advancing the basic physics that underlies them. The communications revolution that is changing the world is driven by physics, and if progress is to continue, research must harness advances in electronic materials, lasers and optoelectronic devices.

Scientists at The Australian National University are currently working on these and many other crucial areas within physics. We hope and believe that with your support, this continuing pursuit of research excellence will improve our knowledge and seed new technologies that will benefit not only Australians, but all humankind.