- World-leading Human Vaccines Project bases a major new research hub in Western Australia
- Recognition for the State as an international leader in paediatric research
- Canadian Professor Tobi Kollmann recruited to lead the groundbreaking development of new childhood vaccines
Western Australia is set to become the only international hub for the Human Vaccines Project, a globally respected and highly regarded research program which aims to decode the human immune system.
The unique project has the potential to develop a single vaccine capable of protecting all people against all strains of a particular disease. It aims to accelerate the development of vaccines and immunotherapies against a range of major infectious diseases and cancers.
The Telethon Kids Institute has accepted an invitation to be part of the prestigious project and is the only site dedicated to children. As such, it will lead the paediatric component of this important global research when it moves into its new state-of-the-art home at the Perth Children's Hospital.
The Perth Children's Hospital Foundation has realised the significance of the research project and are generously co-funding the initiative with the Telethon Kids Institute.
The new research hub at Telethon Kids Institute will focus on next-generation paediatric vaccines to be given early in life and provide lifelong protection. It will work alongside other innovative research projects at the Institute aiming to wipe out infectious diseases globally.
Professor Tobi Kollmann is an international leader in paediatric infectious diseases - he will move to Perth from Canada to establish the WA hub of the Human Vaccines Project. Professor Kollmann will also join Perth Children's Hospital as a working doctor for two days a week, enabling WA children to benefit from his expertise.
The Human Vaccines Project is a global not-for-profit organisation with its headquarters in New York, and all other members currently based in North America. The new Perth hub is a major recognition of Western Australia's leading role in paediatric research, particularly in vaccines and immunology.
Comments attributed to Health Minister Roger Cook:
"I am delighted the new state-of-the-art research facilities at the Perth Children's Hospital have assisted Telethon Kids Institute to secure an invitation to be part of this internationally acclaimed project.
"Telethon Kids Institute is an exceptional facility that has once again shown it is a world leader in paediatric research; their knowledge and expertise will help develop long-term solutions to treat and prevent everyday childhood diseases.
"WA is a world leader in medical research and our involvement in this new vaccine project recognises that position. The new paediatric research hub brings together prevention and innovation, two key components for improving health outcomes for all Western Australians.
"Without the Perth Children's Hospital Foundation and their key donors, this exciting and world-leading project would not be coming to Western Australia. I appreciate and thank them for their generous support.
"Attracting an expert of Professor Kollmann's calibre is a major coup for Western Australia, not only will he conduct world-class research here, he'll also be treating sick kids at the Perth Children's Hospital."
Minister's office - 6552 6500
