National award for UNSW nanoelectronics researcher

Two Australian scientists working in nanoelectronics and health have been recognised for excellence in the science of measurement and metrology.

Dr Alessandro Rossi, a research fellow from the School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications at the University of New South Wales, has been awarded the National Measurement Institute Prize for his groundbreaking work in nanoelectronics — in particular, working towards a quantum-based redefinition of the ampere. Dr Rossi has developed a novel single-electron pump, a type of nanodevice that he has operated to generate electric currents to an unprecedented level of accuracy.

Dr Graham Jones, chemical pathologist at Sydney’s St Vincent’s Hospital, was presented the Barry Inglis Medal for improving the accuracy and reliability of pathology testing, including many commonly used blood tests.

Presenting the awards at Australia’s National Measurement Institute (NMI) in Sydney, Assistant Minister for Science Karen Andrews congratulated both winners saying their diverse fields show that measurement science has many real-world applications.

Dr Rossi’s work redefined the ampere — the unit of measurement of electric current, said Andrews. “Dr Rossi has developed a novel single-electron pump, a device that can generate electric currents to an unprecedented level of accuracy.

“This pump will serve as a measurement standard for electric currents.”

Andrews said Dr Jones’s work has improved the quality of care for patients, particularly around disease diagnosis and monitoring. “His work has had a direct impact on improving patients’ health and helped to ensure  laboratories produce the same results for pathology tests.

“He has also contributed to national testing guidelines for kidney disease and diabetes to reduce incorrect interpretation of test results.”