$3.99 million boost for research

Charles Sturt University was last year awarded $3.99 million in funding for the research program “Training Hub promoting Regional Industry and Innovation in Virology and Epidemiology (THRIIVE): Boosting Australia’s Agriculture and Manufacturing”. The project aims to reduce the impact on the ag industry of zoonotic diseases such as avian influenza, swine flu, Hendra virus and African swine fever virus.

The research team, led by Professor Jade Forwood, is focusing on four key research pillars: epidemiology and disease modelling, molecular virology, translational virology, and rural and First Nations community engagement. The project will develop regional capacity and skills in agricultural epidemiology and disease modelling, and lead to production of rapid diagnostics, antimicrobials, vaccines, and innovative therapeutics.

THRIIVE will also boost regional public engagement and understanding of virology by hosting public seminars, school outreach, and other events. THRIIVE aims to foster more than 15 partnerships, including AgriFutures; Australian Pork; Meat and Livestock Australia; Rivalea; Scolexia Pty Ltd; Australian universities; Gulaay; and National Association of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners.