Improving Workforce Skills: Inspiring the Next Generation of Australian Medtech & Pharma Entrepreneurs

The Bridge and BridgeTech Programs, facilitated by QUT on behalf of a consortium of key industry partners and institutes, are nation-wide professional development programs, focussing on training Australia’s next generation of researchers and life sciences entrepreneurs by developing their commercialisation skills and industry networks. The Bridge and BridgeTech programs are partners of MTPConnect’s REDI Program, an initiative to improve workforce skills across Australia. Joining the podcast this week, is Director of the Programs, Professor Lyn Griffiths and the Program Manager Joel Spotswood, who discuss how the initiative has expanded to include the new Bridge and BridgeTech REDI Program offering 20 funded, competitive industry fellowships annually for Bridge and BridgeTech participants, alumni and selected associated participants over the next four years. Successful applicants receive a $10,000 Fellowship to fund their industry placement to be undertaken for a minimum of 3-6 weeks. Researchers are given a new opportunity to immerse themselves in industry, make professional connections and consider the translation and commercialisation of research. With the impact of COVID-19 being felt across the university sector and research labs across Australia, the REDI Industry Fellowships can provide a bridge to the medtech and pharma industry for our best and brightest scientists. More information, go to https://research.qut.edu.au/redi-program/.