The Herston Biofabrication Institute
Queensland University of Technology and Metro North Hospital and Health Services are working creating the Herston Biofabrication Institute (opening 2019), and working with Hear and Say (a hearing and speech charity and cochlear implant centre to assist deaf children) to create prosthetics.
The Herston Biofabrication Institute will be utilising MTPConnect project funds to develop 3D scanning and 3D printing techniques for children with under-developed ears or microtia. It will optimise approaches for scanning children’s ears, modelling internal cartilage, and produce silicone prosthetics. At least eight children will be part of the programme, with the final outcomes being a nationwide publication and commercialisation for the technology.
The project has had a paper accepted showcasing the 3D scanning technique, and also acknowledging the support of MTPConnect.
Outcomes (FY2020):
- Specifications for a BioFabrication centre, with industry partners engaged.
- At least 8 children recruited to a pilot project investigating biofabrication of ears.
| State | Queensland |
| Consortium lead | Queensland University of Technology |
| Consortium members | Hear and Say, Metro North Hospital and Health Service |
| MTPConnect grant | $100,000 |
| Industry contribution | $1,614,000 |
| Government contributions | $100,000 |
| Project duration | June 2017 - October 2019 (Finished) |
| Contact | Michael McArdle, Queensland University of Technology, m.mcardle@qut.edu.au |
For more information visit The Herston Biofabrication Institute | Twitter: QUT