New research alliance to advance translation of diagnostics and medicines

Medical: To accelerate the translation of cutting-edge diagnostics and therapeutics from bench to bed-side, a new collaborative between Northern Health and RMIT University aims to benefit the rapidly growing population of three of Victoria’s growth areas. By 2036, the population of the Northern Health catchment is projected to surge by over 74%.

The Clinical Translational Research Partnership between RMIT University and Northern Health is set to kick off with a focus on enhancing outcomes for patients with cancer, blood disorders, and chronic diseases. Drawing upon the strengths of both institutions in fields like imaging, spectroscopy, immunology, and pharmacology, the partnership aims to pioneer breakthrough research.

Professor Catherine Itsiopoulos, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor of the Bundoora Health Precinct at RMIT, underscored the significance of preparing future healthcare practitioners to deliver targeted, innovative care.

She emphasised, “Our Clinical Research Translation Partnership will connect clinicians, researchers and academic leaders to ideate and solve healthcare priorities for diverse communities in Melbourne’s north.

“This partnership provides real opportunities to leverage collaboration. We are excited to be enabling immediate translation of evidence-based research in diagnostics, therapeutics and clinical practice focused on cancer, immunology and chronic disease for better patient outcomes.”

Associate Professor Prahlad Ho, Chair of the Research Executive Committee at Northern Health, highlighted the partnership’s role in enhancing healthcare access for residents north of Melbourne “including delivery of innovative clinical trial capabilities as well as novel biomarkers in our multicultural population.”

“Northern Health’s partnership with RMIT will allow a pipeline for the rapid and effective translation of key technological advances into clinical use,” added A/Professor Ho.

The collaboration between Northern Health and RMIT will serve as a hub for clinical trials, particularly in cancer research and nanoparticle diagnostics.

Beyond its research objectives, the partnership is poised to address workforce needs by cultivating a skilled talent pool capable of driving healthcare innovation. Through initiatives like offering Master’s and PhD positions, the collaboration also aims to groom the next generation of medical researchers.

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