The inaugural Life Sciences @ UQ Networking Forum was hosted by The University of Queensland’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) on 12 June to help generate more collaboration between researchers, and between research and industry. The ultimate aim of this forum, and future ones, is to network a globally competitive life sciences sector for Queensland.
Around 300 people attended the forum with leaders from government, industry and research who exchanged ideas on how to create genuine and effective collaborations in Queensland life sciences sector in the face of increasing national and international competition.
The Hon Ian Walker MP, Minister for Science, Information Technology, Innovation and the Arts, supported the concept of knowledge, innovation and technology intensive industries such as life sciences having the potential to provide enormous economic benefits for the state. From industry, Life Sciences Queensland CEO Mario Pennisi reaffirmed the importance of investing in the state’s life sciences sector to accelerate its world-class research translation and expand its global networks.
Professor Max Lu, UQ’s Acting Vice-Chancellor and President, emphasised the importance of collaboration in research and in building stronger partnerships with industry. Following the presentations, Queensland Chief Scientist Dr Geoff Garrett facilitated a lively audience discussion on the challenges and opportunities they face in doing this.
This feedback was collated (you can read the document here) and provided to the Minister and the Queensland Chief Scientist.
IMB Director Professor Brandon Wainwright said that opportunities to network with peers, future collaborators, investors and partners were invaluable, and that IMB and UQ will continue leading efforts to strengthen Queensland’s life sciences ecosystem for the benefit of all.
This event launched the Life Sciences @ UQ Networking Series. To keep up to date with developments and receive invitations to future events, please subscribe to the IMB Research Update e-newsletter.
ENDS
Contact: Gemma Ward, IMB Communications Manager, on 0439 651 107
