The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Japan Bioindustry Association (JBA) to strengthen collaboration and drive innovation in the biomanufacturing sectors in Japan and Australia.
The recent Cellular Agriculture Australia white paper, highlighting the role of emerging biotechnologies, discussed the pivotal position Australia stands at regarding the future of the food system.
With mounting climate, biosecurity, and geopolitical risks converging to expose the vulnerability of the country’s food and agricultural systems and globalised supply chains, Australia has an opportunity to build capability in food biotechnology to meet these challenges. Specific recommendations were given to invest in research and innovation, which can be readily supported through alliances with other nations and organisations.
The new agreement with the JBA aims to advance bioindustries in both Australia and Japan, delivering economic and social benefits and supporting a sustainable future based on bioeconomy principles.
Source: QUT
QUT research infrastructure operations director, Dr Leon Scott, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability.
“This MOU strengthens our international collaborations, and positions QUT and JBA to lead advancements in biomanufacuturing that will benefit both economies and contribute to a sustainable future,” said Scott.
One of Japan’s most comprehensive bioindustry organisations, JBA represents a diverse membership across pharmaceuticals, healthcare, cosmetics, food and beverage, IT, chemicals, and energy.
As a non-profit organisation, JBA plays a central role in fostering open innovation, bridging industry and academia, and connecting domestic and international stakeholders in biotechnology.
It will be able to work effectively in collaboration with QUT, a leading university in bioeconomy research, which recently spent $18 million upgrading its Pioneer BioPilot fermentation facility.
QUT works closely with industry partners, governments, and research organisations to accelerate the development of biomanufacturing industries, and has an extensive portfolio of research infrastructure to support all stages of the research and development pipeline.
JBA managing director and CEO, Tetsuya Tanaka, said the agreement would open new opportunities for knowledge exchange and joint projects.
“Australia provides an ideal environment for the development of biomanufacturing, with abundant feedstock sugars for fermentation and ample solar-based renewable energy,” said Tanaka.
“Queensland, in particular, offers strong government support for synthetic biology and is home to leading academic research in the field. QUT has established a pilot plant next to a sugar mill in Mackay to promote practical application of new technologies.
“Given these strengths, we see Queensland as a key partner in advancing Japan’s biomanufacturing industry and intend to deepen collaboration through QUT as our primary contact,” he said.
