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ISAKOS
Stryker R&D Lab Visit
The ARC Training Centre had an exciting visit to the Stryker R&D lab at Brisbane’s Herston Health Precinct. This visit highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the Centre and Stryker, recently through an Advanced QLD Industry Research Fellowship (AQIRF) grant with Dr. Maxence Lavaill, focusing on shoulder musculoskeletal modelling.
It was an incredible opportunity for attendees to explore Stryker’s R&D programs in additive technologies, robotics, and connected care. The Centre was particularly impressed by Stryker’s approach to digital solutions and real-world evaluation to accelerate the delivery of new technologies, especially their patient-specific solutions and low-footprint manufacturing, which are paving he way for more cost-effective healthcare.
Key highlights of the visit included demonstrations of Stryker’s groundbreaking technologies:
- Mako Robot
- Virtual Surgical Planning
- IsoTour Gel Support Surface for Pressure Injury Prevention
- Ambulatory Surgical Centre
The visit provided valuable networking experiences for HDR students and postdocs, offering insights into career pathways within the biomedical engineering industry. Our attendees learned about advances in surgical robot technology, met industry professionals, and gained a deeper understanding of the real-world applications of biomechanics and translational research. This engagement is instrumental in helping them shape their careers beyond their time at the Centre. We’re also excited about the continuing work with Dr. Lavaill, which is making a significant impact on the field.
A big thank you to Jenna Lyon, Dr Tom Williamson, Justin d’Ettorre, and Conor Kelleher for the tour.
Tour of Stryker Products (OR SUITE)
Research Commercialisation & IP Workshop
Navigating ip & career development for ecrs
Huge thanks to Michael Evans and Dr. Christy Grobbler for leading such an insightful workshop on navigating Intellectual Property (IP) & Career Development for ECRs held at QUT on the 24th of March 2025. Mr. Evans and Dr. Grobbler are both experts at QUT’s Office of Industry Engagement, with extensive experience in IP, research commercialisation and industry partnerships that support research and training initiatives.
The workshop was aimed at HDR students and ECRS with practical insights into balancing academic publications with IP protection. The workshop focused on understanding the commercialisation and patenting process and exploring career pathways in academia and industry. Here at the centre, it’s crucial to engage with workshops like these to support our researchers and PhD students in advancing their career development. We had 8 HDRs who attended in person with an additional five joining online.
Summary of learning outcomes:
- Basic understanding of intellectual property types
- Understanding of commercialisation pathways (from patents to start-ups)
- Review of MedTech IP commercialisation case studies
- Valuing Differences
- Review of commercialisation and technology readiness levels (CRLs and TRLs)
- Career development: carer pathways in IP
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HDR Seminar Success: Shoulder Kinematics and Muscle Function Pre- and Post- Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (rTSA)
Congrats to Miss Anna Moyle!
On December 18th, Centre HDR student Anna Moyle completed her articulation confirmation seminar!
As a Physiotherapist at the Queensland Orthopaedic Clinic, her passion for post-op shoulder rehabilitation is inspired by her own health journey.
Her research is part of the ARC Training Centre for Joint Biomechanics’ program. 📚
Anna’s work is vital for understanding shoulder arthroplasty surgery, guiding clinical practice from surgery to rehab. 🏥
Supervised by Prof Graham Kerr, Prof Ashish Gupta, Dr Wolbert van den Hoorn, and Adj. Assoc. Prof Kenneth Cutbush.
Her research aims to:
📖Review literature on shoulder kinematics and muscle function
🩺Assess pre-op clinical measures and their impact on post-op outcomes
📊Evaluate shoulder kinematics and muscle function using 3D motion capture and EMG
We are proud of Anna’s achievements and look forward to the impact of her research!
Watch the full seminar video below.
Annual Research Symposium Celebrates Advances in Healthcare and Research Excellence
Tuesday 10 Dec 2024
The ARC Training Centre for Joint Biomechanics/QUASR Annual Research Symposium held at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) brought together leading experts, researchers, and industry partners to discuss the latest advancements in medical technology and clinical practice. The symposium’s theme, “Revolutionising MedTech & Clinical Practice: The Synergy of Biomechanics, Tissue Engineering and Medical Robotics,” set the stage for a day of insightful keynotes, panel discussions, and rapid-fire presentations.
The symposium officially commenced with a warm welcome from Prof. Glen Lichtwark, Head of the School of Exercise and Nutrition Science. Prof. Lichtwark set the tone for the day, emphasising the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving innovation and improving patient outcomes.
The first session included a keynote by Adj. Prof. Kenneth Cutbush, who presented on “Revisiting Clinical Challenges: Enhancing Orthopaedic Outcomes through Biomechanics, Medical Robotics, and Tissue Engineering.” This was followed by a patient panel featuring Dr. John Taske and E/Prof. Paul Burnett, who shared their personal experiences and perspectives on advancements in orthopaedic care.
ADJ. Prof. ken cutbush (Orthopaedic surgeon, ken cutbush clinic, St andrew's war memorial hospital)
Prof. Peter Choong (St Vincent'S Private Hospital/ UNi melB)
Prof. Peter Choong, a prominent leader in orthopaedic surgery and biomedical engineering, delivered the second keynote of the day, titled “Limb Sparing Surgery: A Journey from Machines to Molecules.” As the Head of the Department of Surgery at the University of Melbourne and Director of Orthopaedics at St Vincent’s Hospital, Prof. Choong’s expertise in joint replacement and innovative implant designs is unparalleled. His dedication to advancing orthopaedic care and education has made him a respected figure in both clinical and academic circles. “Failure helps us see how we can be better next time,” Prof. Choong emphasized, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to medicine.
The MedTech panel, moderated by Prof. Justin Cooper-White from the University of Queensland, delved into the overarching theme of the day, “Revolutionising MedTech & Clinical Practice: The Synergy of Biomechanics, Tissue Engineering and Medical Robotics.” The panel featured esteemed experts including Prof. Peter Choong, Prof. Saso Ivanovski (Head of School of Dentistry, UQ), Prof. Chamindie Punyadeera (Science and Health, Griffith University), Dr. Jeff Bischoff (Senior Director of Biomechanics Research, Zimmer Biomet US) and A/Prof. Nathalie Bock (Bone & Tumour Bioengineering Research Group Lead, QUT). They discussed the impact of their work and fundamental research on patient outcomes. Dr. Jeff Bischoff reminded us, “We owe it to the patients to ensure that the tech we create has a clear and positive effect on outcomes.”
After a networking lunch, the symposium resumed with rapid-fire presentations from various research programs. Higher Degree Researchers and Postdoctoral Fellows from the four research programs within the training centre shared their research achievements from the past year.
Program 1 Rapid Fires
- Dr. Bart Bolsterlee (research by Yilan Zhang): “Diffusion Tensor Imaging for Reconstruction and Measurement of Rotator Cuff Muscle Architecture”
- Dr. Natalia Mühl Castoldi: “The Power of Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and Mechanics in Bone Formation”
François Bruyer-Montéléone: “Humeral Version Angle Estimates: Leveraging Statistical Shape and Pose Models”
Amine Lagzouli: “Automated 4D Tracking of Cortical Bone Remodeling Events in the Rabbit Using Synchrotron Micro-CT Scans”
Hamid Reza Jarrah: “Finite Element Predictions of Graft Stability in the Latarjet Procedure”
Dr. Max Lavaill: “AQ Industry Research Fellowship – Validation of a Shoulder Musculoskeletal Model”
Corinna Modiz: “Mathematical Modelling of Mineralization Patterns Across Trabecular and Cortical Bone”
Dr. Laith Alzubaidi (with Haider Alwzwazy): “FracNet: End-to-End Deep Learning Framework for Accurate Fracture Detection”
PROGRAM 2 RAPID FIRES
- Prof. Michael Milford (research by Morgan Windsor): “Predicting Failure, Now and Into the Future: A Surgical Robotics Case Study”
- Ahmed Sewify: “Towards Ultrasound Precision Tracking of the Shoulder Joint: A Simulation and Experimental Study”
Prof. Chamindie Punyadeera (Griffith University)
Following a brief afternoon tea break, the symposium continued with a presentation by Prof. Chamindie Punyadeera on “Democratising Healthcare Access through Salivary Diagnostics.” With a career spanning both industry and academia, Prof. Punyadeera holds a joint appointment in Science and Health at Griffith University and leads the salivary diagnostics and liquid biopsy laboratory. Her groundbreaking work focuses on developing and commercialising biomarkers for heart failure and cancer. By validating these biomarkers, her research aims to stratify patients by disease risk and treatment response, accelerating personalised healthcare solutions. “It is a multidisciplinary, collaborative approach that takes our research to clinical practice,” Prof. Punyadeera emphasised, showcasing the power of teamwork in driving innovation.
Prof. Punyadeera’s presentation underscored the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in research, linking the significance of our research centre’s four programs. This seamlessly led into the rapid-fire presentations from Programs 3 and 4, which focused on tissue engineering and in-vivo joint assessments, showcasing the diverse range of research completed within our centre.
PROGRAM 3 RAPID FIRES
- Asawari Parulekar: “Development of A Human iPSC-Based Model for Understanding Tendon Regeneration In Vitro”
- Sepideh Shemshad: “Modulation of Tendon Response Factors to Mechanical Underloading Through a Delivery System”
PROGRAM 4 RAPID FIRES
- Dr. Eric Su: “Does a Single Wearable Sensor Inform Clinically Relevant Information on Shoulder Instability and Function?”
- Dr. Wolbert van den Hoorn: “The Distribution of Neural Drives to Deltoid Segments”
- Amy Ma: “The Neuromuscular Control of the Shoulder Muscles in Healthy Individuals”
- Arthur Fabre: “Exploring Kinematic Mechanisms Underpinning Upper Limb and Shoulder Functions: an Inertial Measurement Unit-Based System Approach”
- Giacomo Nardese: “Neurophysiological Adaptation to Shoulder Pain: Corticomotor Features of Shoulder Muscles and Motor Control Implications”
- Anna Moyle: “Shoulder Kinematics and Muscle function pre- and post- Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty (RSA)”
The day concluded with an awards ceremony, recognising outstanding contributions to research and innovation, followed by networking drinks and canapés. The awards were presented by Prof. Justin Cooper-White and Prof. YuanTong Gu, celebrating achievements in various categories such as Engagement/Collaboration, Best Team Player, Research Excellence, Outstanding Mentorship, and more.
award winners
- Engagement/Collaboration Award: Prof. Peter Pivonka
- Best Team Player Award: Rosa Armitage
- Research Excellence Award: Dr. Laith Alzubaidi
- Outstanding Mentorship Award: Dr. Natalia Mühl Castoldi
- Outstanding Industry Collaborator Award: Materialise – Ms. Monica Russell
- Director’s HDR Award: Best Centre Citizen: François Bruyer-Montéléone
- Director’s HDR Award: Best Research Performance: Morgan Windsor (Winner) and Amy Ma (Special Mention)
Since its establishment in 2020, the Training Centre for joint biomechanics has made significant strides in addressing the original clinical challenges and aims established at its inception, under the four program pillars. The event celebrated the progress made over the past four years across all research areas including computer modelling and simulation, robot-assisted testing and surgery, tissue-engineered scaffolds and in-vivo joint assessment.
Prof. Peter Choong’s quote, “if you aren’t communicating your activities [and research], you aren’t making an impact,” resonated throughout the symposium. The symposium successfully showcased the centre’s journey from 2020 to now, demonstrating how interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation have driven significant advancements in orthopaedic care. Our event today cerrtainly has been impactful, inspiring future research leaders to bridge the gap between academia and industry.
quotes
“Biomechanics is a newer science, and I’ll be fascinated to see where it goes in the next few years” – John Taske
“Failure helps us see how we can be better next time” – Prof. Peter Choong
“It is a multidisciplinary, collaborative approach that takes our research to clinical practice” – Prof. Chamindie Punyadeera
[paraphrased]: “Many implants fail independently of the surgeon and the implant itself – we have to approach medicine holistically – Prof. Peter Choong
“We owe it to the patients to ensure that the tech we create has a clear and positive effect on outcomes” – Dr. Jeff Bischoff
KEYNOTE SPEECHES
QUT Biomechanics Think Tank
On Monday, December 9, 2024, Queensland University of Technology (QUT) hosted the Biomechanics Think Tank event, bringing together leading researchers, industry experts, and academics to explore new opportunities in biomechanics research and collaboration. The event, held at QUT’s Kelvin Grove campus, was organised by the ARC Training Centre for Joint Biomechanics in collaboration with the Centre for Biomedical Technologies.
The morning session began with the arrival of the smaller biomechanics team, including notable attendees such as Prof. Peter Pivonka, Dr. Saulo Martelli, and Dr. Jeff Bischoff, Sr Director of Biomechanics Research at Zimmer Biomet. The session kicked off with welcome remarks and an overview of the round table meeting, followed by a presentation from Dr. Bischoff on collaborating with industry. Discussions included current collaborations, grant opportunities, and potential projects from attendees.
After a brief morning tea, the focus shifted to expanding on ITTC-JB PhD projects, with presentations on inSilico clinical trials of orthopaedic implants, smart implants, and surgical planning simulators. The session provided a platform for in-depth discussions on future joint grant funding applications and other potential projects.
The afternoon session, held at QUT Kelvin Grove, featured a public-facing keynote by Dr. Jeff Bischoff. This was followed by 5-minute pitches from senior experts in South East Queensland (SEQ), who shared their vision for the future of biomechanics and strategic directions for QUT. The event concluded with a round table discussion, allowing participants to engage deeply with the ideas presented and collaborate on potential initiatives.
Special guests included esteemed orthopaedic surgeons, academics, and MedTech industry experts, highlighting the event’s significance in promoting biomechanics research funding and collaborative project opportunities in SEQ.
The collaboration between QUT and Zimmer Biomet is particularly significant as it bridges the gap between academic research and practical industry applications. One notable example of this collaboration is the development and validation of the MyMobility™ app, which integrates with the Apple Watch to monitor range of motion (ROM) in patients. This innovative tool has been validated by Zimmer Biomet, enhancing patient care by providing real-time data and personalized insights. Such collaborations not only advance biomechanics research but also translate these advancements into tangible benefits for patients, demonstrating the impactful synergy between academia and industry.
QUT continues to be at the forefront of biomechanics research and education, with significant contributions from the QUT-Sealy Centre for Biomechanics and Sleep Research. The extension of the ARC Training Centre further positions QUT to make greater strides in biomechanics, benefiting both academia and industry.
ABC-ANZORS 2024 – Melbourne
ABC-ANZORS 2024: Where Biomechanics meets biology in orthopaedics
November 30th – December 4th 2024 | Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne
From November 30th to December 4th, Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne played host to the ABC-ANZORS 2024 Conference, a groundbreaking event that marked the inaugural Combined Scientific Meeting of the Australian and New Zealand Society of Biomechanics (ANZSB) and the Australian and New Zealand Orthopaedic Research Society (ANZORS).
This year’s theme, “Biomechanics Meets Biology in Orthopaedics,” highlighted the convergence of diverse disciplines and the latest innovations in orthopaedic and musculoskeletal research. The conference brought together clinicians, engineers, biologists, human movement scientists, and researchers from across Australia and New Zealand to explore new frontiers in the field.
Innovative Themes and Groundbreaking Research
ABC-ANZORS 2024 featured dynamic sessions that showcased the breadth and depth of musculoskeletal research, including:
Clinical Biomechanics & Orthopaedics
Sports & Injury
Medical Imaging
Musculoskeletal Modelling & Simulation
Sensors, Wearables, and Emerging Technologies
Locomotion and Human Movement
Musculoskeletal Biology & Engineering
Orthopaedic Biomechanics
These thematic sessions provided a rich platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, addressing both fundamental and applied aspects of biomechanics and biology in orthopaedics.
Highlighting Exceptional Contributions
The conference was a proud moment for our team, with outstanding presentations by members showcasing their pioneering research:
- Maxence Lavaill: Spatial tracking of the shoulder bones using optical motion capture and 3D ultrasound: a simulation and cadaveric study.
- Saulo Martelli: Onlay-Grammont hybrid design increases humeral implant stiffness but not fracture load in reverse shoulder arthroplasty.
- Wolbert van den Hoorn: Neural drive to the deltoid segments in healthy shoulders.
- Natalia Mühl Castoldi: Experimental-computational platform to study cortical bone remodelling .
- Corinna Modiz: Analysis of bone mineralisation using discrete and continuous models of bone remodelling.
- Natali Uribe: A parametric finite-element model of the femur spanning the entire adulthood.
- Simon Heinrich (Visitor from FAU): Optimal control simulation of full hand flexion movements exploiting optical marker tracking.
Our poster presenters, François Bruyer-Montéléone and Maggie-May Hornigold, also contributed valuable insights to the conference.
A Keynote to remember
Dr. Bart Bolsterlee’s keynote, “Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging to study skeletal muscle during childhood development”, captivated the audience, exemplifying the intersection of biomechanics and imaging in understanding musculoskeletal function and development.
Community and Connection
Social events like the Welcome Reception, Women’s Breakfast, and the ANZSB Student and EMCR Night provided opportunities to build connections and celebrate the community’s achievements. The Networking Afternoon at Abbotsford Convent and the Conference Dinner were perfect moments to reflect on a week of inspiration and collaboration.
Looking Forward
ABC-ANZORS 2024 was an inspiring event, underscoring the value of multidisciplinary collaboration in advancing biomechanics and orthopaedic research. We thank the organisers and participants for their incredible efforts and look forward to the next chapter.
FDA/TGA Approval: Dr. Pather
Workshop on FDA and TGA Approval with Dr. Sha Pather Empowers Students to Navigate Regulatory Pathways
November 7 | 2024
On Thursday, 11th November, an invaluable workshop on FDA and TGA regulatory approval, led by Dr. Sha Pather of Akunah (COO), took place, equipping students and researchers with critical insights into the regulatory landscape for medical devices. This workshop provided a detailed overview of the requirements and strategies needed to bring medical devices from research to market—an essential skillset for anyone seeking to commercialise medical technology.
Understanding the Importance of Regulatory Approval
Dr. Pather highlighted that understanding the regulatory landscape isn’t just a technical requirement; it’s essential for anyone aiming to connect research with industry, commercialise new technologies, or streamline the translation of academic research into practical solutions. The complexities of regulatory processes, often seen as daunting, can present significant hurdles in device development. Dr. Pather underscored the importance of having a clear roadmap, which not only aids in the commercial viability of medical innovations but also enhances student readiness for industry roles where this knowledge is increasingly valued.
Regulatory Approval as a Risk Management Process
Central to the workshop was the emphasis on regulatory approval as a sophisticated process of risk management. Dr. Pather discussed how regulatory bodies such as the FDA and TGA prioritise the balance of safety and efficacy with inherent device risks. This process doesn’t simply validate the product’s safety but also lays the groundwork for a safe design process, forming the core justification needed for regulatory success. Notably, regulatory approval does not imply absolute safety; instead, it demonstrates that a device is safe enough relative to its potential risks.
The Nuances of Regulatory Strategy: More than Just a Checklist
In a compelling analogy, Dr. Pather described regulatory approval as less of a “checklist” and more of a “dance”—a nuanced balancing act requiring strategic planning and careful risk assessment. He advised against seeking a “quick fix” approach to meeting regulatory requirements and instead encouraged a thoughtful, long-term perspective. Interestingly, Dr. Pather noted that obtaining approval from international bodies such as the FDA can sometimes be a strategic first step before seeking TGA approval in Australia, as overseas authorisation can streamline the domestic process.
Key Elements of a Regulatory Pathway: Device Indication, Equivalence, and Classification
The workshop also explored three key components of regulatory submission:
- Indication for Use: The intended function, conditions, and patient population for a medical device are critical to determining the regulatory pathway. This foundational step ensures a precise alignment of the device’s purpose with regulatory expectations.
- Equivalent Devices: Reviewing comparable devices in the market can inform the regulatory process, as devices that achieve similar outcomes, even with different technologies, provide valuable benchmarks.
- Device Classification: Each medical device falls into a risk-based classification system. Using tools like the TGA’s device classification questionnaire, developers can identify the classification and specific requirements for their device early in the process.
Navigating the Regulatory Pathway: Practical Tools and Resources
Dr. Pather provided guidance on the sequential steps for obtaining approval, from pre-submission planning to leveraging available resources. He pointed participants toward valuable tools, including the TGA device classification tool and external platforms such as Greenlight Guru (Podcast and Website), Easy Medical Device (European Podcast) and Medical Device Academy (Website and YouTube) which offer further guidance on navigating international regulatory standards.
By understanding and applying these foundational principles, participants left with a clearer path forward and a strategic framework for approaching regulatory challenges. This workshop aimed at bridging academia and industry, succeeded in equipping attendees with a practical toolkit for future careers in medical technology and innovation. With Sha’s expertise as Akunah local start-up company COO, the Centre provided its thanks for an expert training opportunity and looks forward to new collaborative opportunities in the future.
Information Resilience PhD School 2024
DIve into data science at the Information Resilience PhD School 2024
29 October 2024 – 31 October 2024
Amine Lagzouli, a dedicated PhD candidate, recently attended the Information Resilience PhD School 2024 at the University of Queensland hosted by fellow ARC Training Centre, the ARC Centre for Information Resilience (CIRES). The annual event, held from October 29–31, brought together PhD students from across Australia to explore the latest advancements in data science and resilience. Over the 2.5-day program, Amine engaged in hands-on activities, networked with experts, and gained insights into AI and data-driven research practices that will shape his future career.
Hands-On Learning and Presentation Opportunities
Amine’s experience at the PhD School included a variety of interactive activities designed to deepen his knowledge and showcase his research:
- 3-Minute Thesis (3MT) Presentation – Amine challenged himself to present his complex research in just three minutes, sharpening his ability to communicate intricate ideas with clarity.
- Poster Presentation – He participated in a poster session, sharing his findings and discussing methodologies with peers and mentors, opening doors for collaborative insights.
- Collaborative Group Sessions – Through interdisciplinary group work, Amine exchanged ideas with other PhD students, gaining new perspectives and forging connections across different research areas.
Workshops and Expert Panels
Throughout the event, Amine attended workshops and panels led by prominent academics and industry professionals. These sessions covered critical topics in AI and data resilience, such as:
- Data Quality in the Age of AI – A keynote by Professor Felix Naumann from the Hasso Plattner Institute (Germany) delved into the essential role of data quality in AI-driven research.
- Industry Engagement and Entrepreneurship – Amine joined panels featuring industry leaders who shared advice on collaboration, innovation, and the importance of entrepreneurial thinking for PhD students pursuing industry careers.
- Advanced Technical Tutorials – He explored tutorials on large language models (LLMs), machine learning workflows, and data-centric AI applications, providing practical insights for his research.
Networking and Industry Connections
Networking was a highlight for Amine, who engaged in meaningful discussions with both peers and experts. He connected with other PhD students and senior researchers, exchanging insights on AI and advanced data methodologies. Panels featuring leaders from top R&D sectors allowed Amine to gain first-hand knowledge of industry challenges and applications, bridging the gap between research and real-world problem-solving.
Insights from Esteemed Guest Speakers
Amine benefited from sessions with esteemed guest speakers, including Professor Felix Naumann and Professor Lina Yao of CSIRO. Their presentations provided an in-depth look at next-generation data science practices, including AI-driven personalisation and the importance of data transparency. These talks offered Amine a comprehensive view of the current trends and critical skills needed in a data-driven world.
Building a Foundation for Future Success
Amine’s involvement in the Information Resilience PhD School was a significant milestone in his academic journey, equipping him with advanced knowledge, new connections, and inspiration to further his work in data science and AI. His experience underscores his commitment to leveraging technology to address complex, real-world challenges, and highlights the value of collaborative events like this in fostering innovation and professional growth. This opportunity has laid a strong foundation for Amine’s future endeavours, preparing him to make impactful contributions to data resilience and AI research. As an ARC Training Centre, we aim to continue collaborating with our Partner Organisation (University of Queensland and sister Centre’s to ensure our students obtain world-class training to become leaders in the medical AI fields. We thank Centre Manager Ms Kate Aldridge for making this training possible and look forward to future school events.
Innovations Unveiled at BIOTech Futures Finals
Inspiring Innovations Unveiled at BIOTech Futures Finals 2024
University of Sydney | October 14, 2024
Sydney University was abuzz with excitement as the BIOTech Futures Finals kicked off with an inspiring and thought-provoking morning. The event began with an Acknowledgement of Country from Dr. Jiao-Jiao Li, followed by a warm welcome from Prof. Hala Zreiqat AM, setting the tone for an engaging day. Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Annamarie Jagose, continued the positive momentum with her opening address, welcoming all participants to the prestigious event.
Keynote Highlights: Revolutionising Medicine Through Innovation
The highlight of the morning was a powerful keynote from Prof. Matthew L. Becker of Duke University. His presentation, “How New Materials and Additive Manufacturing are Changing Medicine,” explored the challenges and incredible potential of 3D-printed medical implants. A striking statistic—fewer than 133 FDA-approved 3D-printed parts are currently available for human use, most of them made from metal—set the stage for his deeper dive into why scaling additive manufacturing in medicine remains a challenge.
According to Prof. Becker, the key barriers include the lack of patient-specific solutions, the absence of optimal materials, the need for validated design rules, and the industry’s low tolerance for risk. However, despite these obstacles, the future remains bright. Prof. Becker encouraged the audience to embrace rapid iteration, urging them to “fail fast” and learn quickly. He cited biotech heart stents as an example of innovations perfected through multiple iterations, motivating the next generation to push boundaries. His memorable quote resonated throughout the day:
“If you aren’t uncomfortable, you will never grow, because that’s where the best innovations come from.”
Student Showcase: Tomorrow’s Innovators
The BIOTech Futures Finals provided an exciting platform for some of Australia’s most talented young minds. Teams from Earnshaw State College and Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Technology (SMT) presented groundbreaking projects that addressed pressing global challenges.
Earnshaw State College introduced ‘Statavac’, an innovative device designed to remove volatile marine debris such as Styrofoam and microplastics from beaches. By using static electricity and a low-powered vacuum pump, this eco-friendly solution bridges the gap between DIY cleanup methods and large-scale industrial products. The project’s affordability and sustainability were highlights, and the team has future plans to scale up and possibly make the design open source.
Meanwhile, Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) presented Serum Switch, a user-friendly database designed to ease the transition from using Foetal Bovine Serum (FBS) to more ethical alternatives in research labs. The platform provides comprehensive information on cost, availability, and success rates, giving researchers the tools to make serum-free research more accessible and financially viable. Their innovative approach drew attention for its potential to revolutionize ethical research practices.
Celebrating Success: Runner-Up Honours for QASMT
After a day filled with inspiring presentations and hands-on workshops, QASMT was named Overall Runner-Up at the BIOTech Futures Finals. Their Serum Switch project impressed judges with its practicality and potential for widespread application, securing them a well-deserved accolade. Both teams performed exceptionally, showcasing not only technical skills but also creativity and a passion for solving real-world problems.
In addition to the student presentations, attendees had the chance to participate in the Handheld Centrifuge workshop and hear from renowned experts. Standout presentations included “Towards a Sustainable Ocean Future” by Dr. Lucy Buxton and “The Journey of Building Two Global AI Tech Companies” by Dr. Don Perugini, which added further depth to the event.
Shaping the Future of Science and Technology
The BIOTech Futures Finals was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of the next generation of innovators. The passion, creativity, and determination of these students demonstrate that the future of science and technology is in capable hands. Huge congratulations to all participants, especially Queensland Academy for SMT for being named Overall Runner-Up! With exciting times ahead, these students are paving the way for tomorrow’s breakthroughs in biotech and sustainability.
