Burnext accelerator program

The Burnext accelerator model removes funding barriers, which often limit the ability of researchers to develop their ideas into real-world outcomes.

It takes projects from proof-of-concept, through an intense process of milestone-driven project planning and delivery stages, to ensure outcomes within 24 months.

Burnet Institute is investing an initial $6.5 million in the program, which is designed to fast-track translational research.

We have chosen 2 projects to participate, with additional projects to enter the program as capacity expands. Read on to find out more.

Expanding access to hepatitis c testing and treatment through community pharmacies (EXPAND-C)

Burnet is working with community pharmacies and primary healthcare services to expand access to hepatitis C testing and treatment in Victoria.

In the next 24 months, the team aims to conduct more than 1,800 hepatitis C tests. They plan to identify up to 600 individuals with the disease and cure hundreds.

'It will help us reach people who currently miss out on hepatitis care and build a platform for other communicable disease interventions with teams across Burnet,' said deputy program director of Disease Elimination Professor Joseph (Joe) Doyle.

Learn more about EXPAND-C.

Developing a liver health test (Alanine Transaminase 'ALT' point-of-care test)

Burnet is developing a rapid test to monitor liver health. It will provide instant results for people being treated with drugs that cause liver toxicity.

The work builds on the success of an ALT prototype test developed by the Burnet Diagnostics Initiative (BDI) team earlier this year.

'With the test available, we can act faster, take the patient off the drug sooner, and help them recover more quickly,' said senior research scientist Dr Lilian Hor.

Burnext is an accelerator programme housed within Burnet's Commercialisation and Research Translation (CRT) team. The CRT supports Burnext with commercial and research translation expertise. Find out more about commercialisation at Burnet.