Industry involvement in Australian agrobiotechnology: the views of scientists

In the October 1993 edition of Australasian Biotechnology a special feature on 'the biotechnology debate' raised issues such as public acceptance of biotechnological products, the ethical issues surrounding the new technology and commercialisation. In regard to the latter, it was suggested that Australian scientists no longer believe there are major (or negative) consequences concerning the involvement of private firms in public research. This paper reports on an Australia-wide survey of several hundred biotechnologists who were involved in agriculturally-related research. Findings indicate that while those surveyed believe that commercial linkages are necessary for the continued development of the industry, they remain concerned that such linkages are altering the trajectory of science.