Griffith University Expands Its Presence in Health Technology Sector

Key Takeaways

Griffith University is constructing the Health and Advanced Technology Research and Innovation Centre (HATRIC) in Gold Coast.
The facility is funded by a $25 million investment from the Australian and Queensland governments, along with local contributions.
HATRIC will focus on advancing medical technologies, including cell therapies, vaccine development, and clinical trials.

HATRIC’s Vision and Objectives

Griffith University has initiated construction on the Health and Advanced Technology Research and Innovation Centre (HATRIC) in the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct. A groundbreaking ceremony was held recently, with the project expected to be completed by May 2028. HATRIC is poised to transform the landscape of health technology by supporting innovative research and commercial initiatives.

The center will be home to projects from Griffith’s Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics (IBG), the Advanced Design and Prototyping Technologies Institute (ADaPT), and an expanded Clinical Trial Unit. It aims to enhance Griffith’s capabilities in medical research by creating a streamlined pathway for transitioning discoveries into industry applications.

Once operational, HATRIC will feature specialized cleanrooms for the production of investigational vaccines and therapies for Phase 1 clinical trials. Key initiatives include the manufacturing of cell therapies for spinal injury treatments, the development of whole parasite vaccines for malaria and the testing of adjuvants through the IBG’s Vaccine ADD ARC Centre. It will also facilitate projects focused on developing protein-conjugate and RNA vaccines for diseases like Strep A and COVID-19.

HATRIC will house advanced facilities that allow for overnight stays and close monitoring of patients during clinical trials. This includes expanded capabilities for Phase I-IV clinical trials focusing on precision medicine, gene therapies, and various other medical interventions. The center is designed to enable in situ functional mechanical testing of medical devices, thereby providing essential insights for future technological advancements in healthcare.

This ambitious facility is financially supported by a collaborative $25 million funding effort from the South East Queensland Innovation Economy Fund, which comprises equal contributions of $12.5 million from both the Australian and Queensland governments, along with an additional $10 million from the City of Gold Coast. The establishment of HATRIC signifies Griffith University’s commitment to advancing health technology and enhancing collaborative efforts in biomedical sciences, solidifying its role as a key player in the region’s innovation landscape.

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