Breeding better animals
Growing robust crops
Improving farming techniques
Innovation and technology
Invasive pests
Healthier, safer and sustainable food
Protecting crops and animals
We've developed a range of tools and techniques to answer today's challenges and plan for the future, including gene technology, digital modelling and region-specific strategies.

Think ‘biosecurity’ in Northern Australia
Dr Gary Fitt, Biosecurity Flagship Science Director, explores the biosecurity challenges and opportunities our north presents.
CYBERNOSE® biosensor Biosecurity risk and preparedness
Our CYBERNOSE® biosensors mimic the sophisticated smell receptors of simple animals to detect and measure odours and chemicals in a range of substances.
EPT: a better, greener food processing technology Food science for healthier, safer and more sustainable food
We have helped develop a world-first, energy efficient spray drying technology that preserves more flavour in powdered foods such as protein powders and coffee, and is creating brand new and improved food products.
Gene technology
We use a range of gene technologies in our work in agriculture, biosecurity and environmental sciences. We carefully select the most appropriate technology to achieve the desired outcome.

Overview of gene technology research at CSIRO
Gene technology encompasses several techniques including marker-assisted breeding, RNAi and genetic modification. Only some gene technologies produce genetically modified organisms. We use the most appropriate technique, or combination of techniques, to achieve the desired goal.
Australian RNAi technology: silencing gene expression for plant, animal and human health science
We have led the way in the development of what has been hailed as a major breakthrough in molecular biology: silencing gene expression by RNA interference (RNAi).
Marker-assisted breeding
Marker-assisted breeding is a conventional technique that allows breeders to track genes without using transgenic approaches. It can be used in plants and animals to select qualities that are desirable for farmers and consumers. Marker-assisted breeding doesn't produce genetically modified organisms.
Genetic modification
Some of our gene technology research produces genetically modified products which provide innovative and unique opportunities for Australian agriculture and consumers.
Sex determination techniques for the egg and poultry industries
A new gene technology to differentiate between male and female chicks pre-hatch could improve animal production, reduce costs and eliminate ethical dilemmas for the egg and poultry industries.
Australia's Biosecurity Future — preparing for future biological challenges
The report — Australia’s Biosecurity Future: preparing for future biological challenges — uses strategic foresight to identify the major biosecurity trends and risks Australia may need to respond to in the next 20-30 years.