A new $12 million electromaterials centre based at the University of Wollongong aims to create the materials needed for the next generation of bionic ears, artificial muscles and nerve repairs.

The Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science brings together scientists to develop the nano-science and technology for the movement of electric charge within and between materials. For example, the centre will help to create the materials needed for the next generation of bionic ears, artificial muscles and nerve repairs, and in collaboration with Monash University, develop the bio-batteries and bio-fuel cells to drive them, said the centre's director Prof Gordon Wallace.

The centre's partners are the Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, the ARC, the NSW Department of State and Regional Development, Monash University, the Bionic Ear Institute, and St Vincent's Health.

The centre has already attracted 21 visiting scientists from eight different countries and will carry out collaborative research with four different Cooperative Research Centres -- Polymers, Smart Print, Intelligent Manufacturing and Cochlear Implant and Hearing.

The new centre hosted an international symposium from 15 to 17 February on electromaterials science to discuss recent advances in this research area, particularly the role and impact of nanostructure.

The centre was officially opened by the ARC's CEO, Prof Peter Hoj. The ARC provided the centre's $12 million in funding for a period of five years commencing in 2005.