CSL, SpeeDx and Vaxxas boost collaboration between industry and research

Medical: High-skilled Australian researchers, clinicians and professionals from the medtech, biotech and pharma sector have secured sought-after industry placements under MTPConnect’s REDI (Researcher Exchange and Development within Industry) Fellowship program.

The REDI Fellowship program provides financial support to Australian and/or multinational medtech and pharma companies to bring the best Australian talent in-house to work on priority research projects. The 18 new fellows will be working for up to 20-months with small, medium and international companies based in Australia and Europe.

MTPConnect CEO Stuart Dignam said connecting researchers, clinicians and sector professionals with industry is critical for the growth of Australia’s medical products sector.

“Not only do fellows benefit from working within industry settings, but the program also ensures they return for a time to their home institution so they can share their industry experiences within the research sector and help drive commercialisation-focused culture change,” he said.

SpeeDx CEO, Colin Denver, said “SpeeDx is very excited to expand our R&D capacity through the REDI program. This is a great opportunity to work with world class researchers and expand our research horizons.”

Dr Michael Wilson, CSL Vice President, Research, told Health Industry Hub “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Thompson and Associate Professor Gartlan for the duration of their REDI Fellowships. Opportunities to collaborate, share knowledge and expertise as afforded us by the REDI Fellowships benefit us all – universities, research institutions, biotechnology companies, and most importantly, patients.

“At CSL our promise is to patients and delivering on that promise requires the translation of medical research into medicines patients require. Ground-breaking research which stays within laboratories or stalls in the transition to becoming a commercial treatment for those most in need, is not just a lost opportunity but time that patients often don’t have.”

Charles Ross, Head of Clinical Operations and Supply at Vaxxas, commented to Health Industry Hub “We’re pleased to have Dr Hacker on board at an exciting time for Vaxxas as we prepare for late-stage clinical trials and scale-up toward commercialisation. Through programs like the REDI Fellowship Program, MTPConnect plays an important role in supporting the future of our sector by connecting companies with high-skilled researchers, clinicians and professionals.

“Elke’s expertise will be invaluable in helping Vaxxas develop and test educational resources for our novel, needle-free vaccination technology. In return, she will gain an in-depth understanding of the manufacturing, quality and regulatory pathways required in advancing a biotech company like Vaxxas towards commercialisation.”