Entrepreneurial researchers get to work in ninth cohort of ON Accelerate program

CSIRO has shared details of teams making up the ninth cohort of its ON Accelerate program, featuring technologies including 3D printing for flexible ceramic solutions, a new therapeutic for treating pneumonia, and energy-efficient ammonia production.

In a statement on Thursday, the nation’s scientific organisation described the program as a “structured three-month accelerator” helping entrepreneurial researchers wanting to translate their ideas into real-world impact, and connecting them with industry experts and investors.

Dr Jen Taylor, Executive Director of Future Industries at CSIRO, said she was “constantly amazed by the groundbreaking solutions” from ON Accelerate teams, and the current cohort reflects Australia’s “burgeoning strength in biotech and healthcare innovation”.

“Our ninth ON Accelerate cohort showcases the researchers working at the cutting edge of technology, particularly in drug development, healthcare delivery, and diagnostics, addressing some of society’s greatest challenges,” added Taylor.

Among the 11 teams is Facet Ammonia (pictured), whose Dr James Bradley guested on episode 102 of the @AuManufacturing Conversations podcast to discuss the end of his former venture, Diffuse Energy.

Asked if he’d do it again, he said at the time: “You get used to the craziness of a startup… I worked in a career in retail where every day was pretty damn similar.

“Father’s day is the same day every year. Christmas is the same day every year [laughs]. It’s rather the same-same. And the thought of going back to a regimented sort of job actually now scares the hell out of me.”

ON Accelerate culminates in a Showcase event in Melbourne on June 5.

A list of the 11 teams is reproduced below.

3DCeraFlex, from James Cook University, has developed patented technology for 3D printing flexible ceramic solutions, revolutionising high-temperature, defence, and energy applications. Currently working with AIMS to develop ceramic solutions for reef collaboration.
Ability Optics, an SME spun out of the Australian National University, focused on accelerating drug development. It has patented imaging hardware that enables faster and more cost-effective cell and tissue microscopy techniques, quickening the time-to-market for new personalised medicines.
Amorfoil, from CSIRO developed a patented planar flow casting process to create cost-competitive, efficient materials for grid distribution and electric vehicles.
Elemental Therapeutics, from The University of Melbourne, is restoring the efficacy of antibiotics against drug-resistant infections through the development of PBT2, a small molecule therapeutic for community-acquired bacterial pneumonia.
Enhanced Analgesics, from the University of Sydney, is addressing the global chronic pain crisis by developing a non-opioid drug that provides 24-28 hours of effective pain relief, offering a sustainable breakthrough alternative for millions suffering.
Epiblox, from the University of South Australia, is developing a breakthrough treatment for severe childhood epilepsy. Its lead drug candidate holds life-changing potential and strong commercial viability.
Facet Amtech, an SME licensing technology from the University of Newcastle, is revolutionising ammonia production with a breakthrough technology that improves energy efficiency, reducing the need for carbon-intensive natural gas.
I-VADE, from Edith Cowan University and in partnership with Alpha Immersion, is addressing rising violence in healthcare with an innovative VR-based aggression de-escalation training solution, improving overall staff and patient care.
ProSeek Bio, a startup commercialising technology from QIMR Berghofer, is closing the gender health gap with next-gen diagnostics, starting with ovarian cancer blood tests, aiming to revolutionise ovarian cancer diagnosis for women worldwide.
Topicure, from RMIT University, is developing gel-based formulations to improve the delivery of active compounds through the skin, reducing side effects and increasing compliance for patients.
Viortec, an SME spun out of the Australian National University, is developing innovative devices for hip and knee replacement surgeries, enhancing surgical precision, supporting surgeons and improving patient outcomes.