A new advanced research centre backed by the Victorian Government will help drive digital innovation in the state's medicine and food manufacturing industries.
Minister for Higher Education Gayle Tierney today launched the $4 million Faster, Smarter Pharma and Food Manufacturing Project based at the University of Melbourne's Parkville Biomedical Precinct.
It will be a place for researchers and student interns to explore digital and artificial intelligence solutions, for example increasing the speed and volume of medicine production, to support local industries competing in an international market.
New micro-certification and graduate training programs and workshops will also be developed to ensure Victorian workers in the pharmaceutical and food industries have the skills they need now and into the future.
The project will create eight jobs in research and four student internships.
The Government contributed $1.8 million to the project in a joint effort by The University of Melbourne and its partners and was one of many pitches from universities to the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund, which was developed in response to the significant impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the sector.
The unprecedented $350 million Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund is supporting universities with capital works, research infrastructure projects and applied research focused on boosting Victoria's productivity and economy as the state recovers from the coronavirus pandemic.
As stated by Minister for Higher Education Gayle Tierney
"This project will drive innovation in some of Victoria's most valuable industries while also preparing workers with the skills they need now and into the future."
"Universities have a vital role in education and research as well as strengthening Victoria - which is why we're continuing to back them."
As stated by Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford
"Victoria is already a leader in medical manufacturing - this investment will drive innovation and ensure our local industry stays internationally competitive."
As stated by University of Melbourne Pro V-C, Research Partnerships and Infrastructure Professor Mark Hargreaves
"We are delighted the Victorian Government is supporting this project, which will help future-proof the state's food and pharmaceutical manufacturing sectors through world-leading research and training."
