UQ researchers to feature at Brisbane AusBiotech Conference

The University of Queensland's scientific excellence will be on show at the AusBiotech Conference in Brisbane in October. 

UQ Professors Matthew Brown and Ian Frazer and senior research fellows Dr Neena Mitter and Dr Eugeni Roura will join a distinguished line-up of speakers at the conference. 

AusBiotech will profile world-class research and business partnerships and is expected to attract more than 1000 delegates, including leaders in biotechnology, biopharmaceuticals, life sciences, business, investment, research and health industries. 

Cervical cancer vaccine pioneer and Translational Research Institute CEO and Director of Research Professor Frazer said he was thrilled the conference was being held in Brisbane. 

“It will help recognise the city's research intellect strengths,” he said. 

“Our researchers are recognised as global leaders at the forefront of Australia's developing bio-economy. 

“There is a burgeoning brains trust here in Brisbane and our researchers will help lead key conversations about the next frontier of medical research and innovation at this conference,” he said. 

UQ Diamantina Institute Director and Professor of Immunogenetics Professor Brown will be discussing the intricacies of personalised medicine as part of a panel session at the conference. 

“Personalised medicine is helping to turn a significant new corner in healthcare,” he said. 

“Rather than simply reacting to disease, we can now analyse individuals' genetic information and offer tailored and proactive treatment advice. 

“This is smart medicine and it's revolutionising the patient experience across multiple sectors of the health system.” 

UQ Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI) Senior Research Fellow Dr Neena Mitter will explore how Australia and India could work together on biotech research. 

Dr Mitter leads several high-profile research projects including an ARC Linkage project to improve productivity for the avocado industry, a Queensland Government-backed research project to develop a much-needed cattle vaccine, and an international project funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to manage biotic stress in field crops. 

“QAAFI researchers are ideally placed to work with their Indian colleagues on development of significant new biotech initiatives to improve global food security,” Dr Mitter said. 

QAAFI's Dr Eugeni Roura will present on “bitter taste for better health” as part of a food as medicine panel session. 

This year's AusBiotech theme – Bio-economy in transition – is an opportunity to explore the transformation of the Australian biotechnology sector in response to global economic and social influences. 

The event will be held in Brisbane from 30 October to 1 November and people can register via the AusBiotech website www.ausbiotech.org. The conference program is available at: http://ausbiotechnc.org/program. 

About AusBiotech 

AusBiotech is Australia's biotechnology industry organisation working on behalf of more than 3000 members in the areas of human health, medical devices, food technology, agriculture, environmental and industrial biotechnology. AusBiotech is dedicated to the development, growth and prosperity of the Australian biotechnology industry. 

Media: Caroline Davy, UQDI, 3343 7027. Rob Hohenhaus, QAFFI, 3346 0553. Carolyn Varley, UQ Communications, 3365 1120.