This project has grown from a series of pilots funded by industries, Research and Development Corporations (RDC), universities and government (1998-2007), a national Scoping Study (2006) and a fully investigated national Business Case (2007). Each precursor to the project has been tested and proven. This has brought a high level of confidence to the project and its strategic approach, at both the national and the local level.

This scoping study commissioned by Dr Brendan Nelson in 2006, on how to implement a proven yet flexible method of attracting high calibre, professional, young people from schools, through university and then into scientific careers in primary industry nationally. This study built on a model funded by GRDC that is currently in operation in Tasmania and WA that is managed by University of Tasmania and UWA. The model has been piloted in the Riverland, SA during 2006 and supported by Flinders University and HAL. This will create future leaders and innovators that add real value to rural and regional Australia.Download

Business case into the merits of establishing a Primary Industry Centre for Science Education (PICSE) The Russell Model is an industry / university / school partnership originating at the University of Tasmania and designed to stimulate student interest in studying science at university with a pathway into primary industries. The approach meets a growing industry need for science graduates.Download