Jen Barnes
Director, Commercialisation and Research Translation; Director, Burnet Diagnostics Initiative
Working groups
Background
Jen has a diverse background spanning research, pathology, the clinical interface, academia, and industry.
Beginning her career in academic research before transitioning into a large multinational in-vitro diagnostics (IVD) company, Jen discovered her passion at the intersection of science, innovation, and impact.
She thrives on translating groundbreaking research and product development into commercially viable, accessible solutions that deliver both social impact and financial return. Over the course of her career, she has led several start-ups, overseen business development activities, and shaped commercialisation strategies across the health and life sciences sector.
Jen joined Burnet Institute to establish and lead the Burnet Diagnostics Initiative and now serves as Director of Commercialisation and Research Translation. In this role, she focuses on strengthening quality systems, stakeholder engagement, and industry partnerships — recognising that Burnet’s discoveries can achieve far greater impact when science, business and community come together.
Appointments
- Director, Commercialisation and Research Translation
- Director, Burnet Diagnostics Initiative
- Mentor, Franklin Women
- Expert Panel Subgroup Member, NSW Medical Device Fund
Current projects
View 2 moreStellabody®
Stellabody® is up to 100 times more effective at cell killing than standard antibody therapeutics.
Efficacy assessment of a new point-of-care test for confirmation of active syphilis in men who have sex with men
We're developing a novel rapid point of care test based on lateral flow technology for diagnosis of active syphilis in a single visit.
Liver health screening test
A rapid point-of-care (POC) test for liver disease biomarkers could improve the management of acute and chronic liver disease and reduce the progression to liver cancer in Australia and globally.
News and features
View 2 more
Burnet partners with Atomo to develop Australia’s first syphilis self-test
Burnet partners with Atomo on a new syphilis point-of-care test, backed by the Australian Government.
Burnext accelerator program recipients
