Session 7A: Bridging the health divide: Translating biosensor innovations for regional and rural communities
Tracks
Track 1
| Thursday, October 23, 2025 |
| 1:40 PM - 2:25 PM |
Overview
Sponsored by: LA TROBE UNIVERSITY
Details
Regional and rural communities in Australia and around the world face a number of health challenges, driven by limited access to timely health information. Next-generation biosensors offer a potential transformative solution, enabling rapid, accurate, and affordable diagnostics directly at the point-of-need.
Supported by its regional campus network, La Trobe University is at the forefront of translating biosensor innovations into practical healthcare solutions for rural Australia. Through initiatives such as the ARC Research Hub for Molecular Biosensors at Point-of-Use (MOBIUS) and the La Trobe University Biomedical and Environmental Sensor Technology (BEST) Centre, researchers are developing point-of-need biosensors that enable rapid, accurate diagnostics in remote settings.
This panel will explore the journey from laboratory research to real-world application, highlighting collaborative efforts with local communities. Discussions will focus on strategies for effective research translation, community engagement, and overcoming barriers to biosensor adoption.
Sponsored by:
Speaker
Ms Michelle Gallaher
Non Executive Director
Praxis Australia
Chair
Prof. Brian Abbey
Deputy Director, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science
La Trobe University
Panellist
Dr. Saimon M. Silva
Director, Biomedical & Environmental Sensor Technology (BEST) Centre
La Trobe University
Panellist
Katrina Umback
Community Heart Health Advocate
Panellist
