UQ biotechnology project wins Qld Government sponsorship

UQ biotechnology project wins Qld Government sponsorship

A project to assist the development of the Queensland biotechnology industry has been selected for a prestigious Queensland Government cadetship.

The study by University of Queensland master of technology management student Dr Gerald Haaima has won a Queensland Government International Business Cadetship based in Los Angeles.

Dr Haaima's proposal concentrates on biotechnology commercialisation from public institutions into start-up companies.

"The Queensland biotechnology sector is young and growing and much of the infrastructure that exists elsewhere is yet to be put into place," he said. My study and report will focus on examining key performance indicators from successful technology transfers that have occurred in California, and gather information from experienced practitioners."

He plans to present his study findings at the 15th Australasian Biotechnology Conference to be held in Brisbane from July 2 to 6, 2000.

Dr Haaima was formerly a research officer with UQ's Centre for Drug Design and Development, part of the $100 million Institute for Molecular Bioscience to be built next year. He has also been a researcher at University of Copenhagen and Australian National University and is a science honours and PhD graduate of the University of Otago, NZ.

Queensland Premier Peter Beattie said the International Business Cadetship Scheme was a critical ingredient in developing valuable trade and investment relations between the Queensland Government, industry and key trading partners.

"In particular, Dr Haaima's project will be of great value to the Queensland biotechnology industry through the provision of relevant market knowledge and emerging opportunities within the United States," Mr Beattie said.

The cadetship will provide Dr Haaima with an orientation in the Department of State Development, followed by a 20-week assignment in the Los Angeles Queensland Trade and Investment Office. Dr Haaima's project is sponsored by UQ's technology transfer company, UniQuest Pty Ltd, the Australian Biotechnology Association, Agen Biomedical Limited and PanBio Pty Ltd. Additional support will be provided by the UQ Technology Management Centre.

Media: Further information: Dr Gerald Haaima, telephone 0412 422 647, email: s007691@student.uq.edu.au For more information on the 15th Australasian Biotechnology Conference, contact Dr Greg Harper, telephone 07 3214 2441, email: greg.harper@tag.csiro.au