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Curtin University


Hearing tests reveal how sea lions and fur seals hear human-made noise

The study reveals that both sea lions and fur seals are most sensitive to sounds around 3.2 kilohertz, providing a baseline for assessing the impact of human-made noise on these marine mammals. The research findings could help inform environmental impact assessments and noise management as shipping and coastal development expand.

SourceCurtin University·JournalConservation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 7, 2026

WA scientist helps crack black hole ‘burp’ mystery

Astronomers have long suspected black holes follow the same physics regardless of size, but proving it was difficult due to supermassive black hole evolution. WA scientist Dr Adelle Goodwin helped crack the code by studying tidal disruption events, finding two distinct jet-launching phases

SourceCurtin University·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 17, 2026

Prehistoric builders hauled 25-tonne stones 18km to build Britain’s tallest stone row

Researchers discovered that prehistoric builders deliberately transported enormous 25-tonne stones from Brimham Rocks 18km away to build Britain's tallest stone row, the Devil's Arrows. The study challenges long-held assumptions about ancient monument construction and highlights the importance of landscape and shared belief systems.

SourceCurtin University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 8, 2026

Ancient shipwreck cargo reveals surprising global trade secrets of the 1600s

Researchers analysed stone blocks and bricks from the Dutch East India Company's ship Batavia, revealing the materials came from at least two different quarry areas in what is now Germany. The study used advanced geochemical techniques to trace the origin of the cargo, uncovering hidden details about global trade routes.

SourceCurtin University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science Reports·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 28, 2026

Children who miss preschool more likely to start school behind, major Curtin study finds

A Curtin University study found that children who attend preschool before starting school are significantly more likely to arrive ready to learn. The study, which analyzed over 123,000 Western Australian children, also showed that preschool attendance was associated with better developmental outcomes across every area of child developm...

SourceCurtin University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 28, 2026

Muscles matter for diabetes risk, new study finds

A major international study led by Curtin University found diabetes risk is linked to both excess body fat and poor muscle health, with nearly 15% of people with sarcopenic obesity developing type 2 diabetes within 10 years. Maintaining muscle strength and mass may be as important as managing body weight in assessing diabetes risk.

SourceCurtin University·JournalDiabetes Care·TypeObservational study·DateJul 13, 2026

Study finds dementia risk factors could depend on which country you live in

A new study by Curtin University found that millions of dementia cases across the Western Pacific Region could be prevented by implementing country-specific strategies to address key risk factors. The research highlights a major opportunity for prevention, showing how different countries' economic and social contexts affect risk factors.

SourceCurtin University·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 18, 2026

‘Dancing jets’ from black hole reveal their immense power

Scientists have confirmed the immense power of black hole jets, measuring over 10,000 times the energy released by the Sun. The research used a radio telescope array spanning the Earth to capture images of the 'dancing jets', revealing their movement pattern and speed, approximately half the speed of light.

SourceCurtin University·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateApr 16, 2026

Curtin scientists freeze out ice-age delivery theory for Stonehenge stones

Researchers analyzed over 500 zircon crystals and found no evidence of glaciers transporting the bluestones to Stonehenge. The study strengthens the case for human transport, leaving the exact method a mystery. Advanced mineral fingerprinting techniques provided key insights into geological history.

SourceCurtin University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 21, 2026

‘Cosmic clock’ reveals Australian landscapes’ history and potential future

A new method uses tiny crystals of zircon to study the past evolution of Australian landscapes, offering insights into how the environment responds to geological processes and climate change. The approach provides valuable information on the storage and reworking of sediments near the surface over millions of years.

SourceCurtin University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2026

National study finds where you live influences your body weight

A national study led by Curtin University found that Australian's location significantly affects their body weight. The research tracked individuals across 14 years and discovered that people tend to adapt to the typical weight profile of their new community., Local food environments, walkability, and access to green space are key fact...

SourceCurtin University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateDec 2, 2025