Neuroinformatics: development of shared neuroscience databases and tools at the Australian National Neuroscience Facility

The Australian National Neuroscience Facility (NNF) is providing Australian neuroscientists with access to networks of laboratories offering neuroscience consultancy, technical expertise and state-of-the-art equipment. The facility is fostering neuroscience excellence, combining science, technology, innovation, investment, creativity and the opportunity to advance our understanding and treatment of the brain and mind. Within the NNF a neuroscience informatics platform has being established as one Australian node of developing international collaborative neuroinformatics projects. The platform is aimed at enhancing both the national neuroscience research capability as well as the commercialisation opportunities for the Australian health and biotechnology industries. This paper describes some of the initiatives to achieve international collaborative neuroscience, and would review current Australian activities related to the development of multi-national neuroinformatics research activities. The organizational structure and objectives of the NNF and its role in contributing to the development of the Australian biotechnology industry are also outlined.