MUSSE

Dr Veronica Borrett took up the role of General Manager of the University of Melbourne’s Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute in July 2008.

The Guest Column is an opportunity to look at issues from a different perspective. Opinions expressed are those of the contributor.

Dr Veronica Borrett took up the role of General Manager of the University of Melbourne’s Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute in July 2008.

Dr Borrett is no stranger to the challenges of working in a complex, global organisation with a range of interdisciplinary approaches to science, research and community development. Earlier this year, she was appointed as a ‘Qualified Expert’ for the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in The Hague, a role she will continue to hold while working at the University of Melbourne. Veronica is one of 18 experts appointed worldwide from the 184 member states of the United Nations Chemical Weapons Convention who may be called upon to assist the OPCW with investigations of the alleged use of chemical weapons. In this month’s guest column, Dr Borrett writes on her vision for the Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute and the challenge of improving human health and the environment.

Innovation in health, and support for the environment, are critical to our future. Victoria has taken the lead in supporting biotechnology and translational research, and can boast a vibrant research and biotechnology community.

The University of Melbourne’s Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute provides world-class research supported by high-end platform technologies and business incubator space.

I was keen to move to Bio21 because of its focus on health and its concept of providing facilities and opportunities to our top scientists to undertake the multidisciplinary science required to achieve the complex outcomes necessary for innovation in the health and environmental sectors. As someone who had worked closely with industry in past roles, I was well aware of the importance of forging close ties with industry and understanding the requirements of the biotechnology sector.

I think that the concept of the Bio21 Institute aligns well with the future of science in Australia. It brings together the key elements of basic research, interdisciplinary opportunities and the biotechnology industry. Critical to this is the high-end University of Melbourne research and the opportunities for the development of the next generation of scientists. Bio21 has over 200 PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. This not only provides opportunities for our young scientists but I think it contributes to the vibrancy that is evident when you walk through the Institute.

Scientific research and advice has also played a key role in the development, implementation and ongoing support for the United Nations Chemical Weapons Convention. My work for the OPCW is a great opportunity to use my international experience and to continue to build collaborative relationships with our global partners. As with health-related research, Australia has been a prominent player in efforts to strengthen the barriers to the use of chemical weapons. This work continues through the OPCW and through the efforts of scientists across the world.

For information visit: www.bio21.org