The Kolling Institute Research Strategy has been launched, setting the strategic framework for the institute over the next five years and broadening opportunities to achieve high-quality translational research.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Three research priority areas have been identified during the formation of the strategy including musculoskeletal, neuroscience and pain, and cardiovascular and renal research.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kolling Institute Executive Director Professor Carolyn Sue said these areas of research investigate some of the biggest health challenges of our time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\u201cCollectively, they cost the community billions of dollars a year in health, personal and economic costs,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThere is tremendous expertise across these disciplines within the Kolling, with many researchers world renowned in their fields. Our research teams have a track record of outstanding success, a unique breadth of skills and knowledge and globally recognised expertise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cBy focusing on these areas, we are moving to strengthen our ability to achieve game-changing research and ultimately improve the health of our community.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
A key component of the new strategy is the provision of research enablers, which will be instrumental in providing collaborative opportunities, modern platforms and infrastructure, and diversified funding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The research enablers will focus on the following areas:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Clinical trials and translation<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Data and informatics<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Research infrastructure and support services<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Recruitment and retention<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Professor Sue said the strategy will identify opportunities for the Kolling to become a national leader in clinical trials and translational practice, building on existing strengths in this area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\u201cOur researchers work within Royal North Shore Hospital, one of Sydney\u2019s largest tertiary hospitals, with extensive access to patient groups and state of the art facilities,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis means our teams can directly incorporate scientific discoveries and evidenced-based improvements into patient care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe expect there will be a greater involvement in industry trials by building on our expertise and reputation as a leader in clinical trials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe measures incorporated in the new strategy are aimed at assisting teams to increase the impact of their research.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThey will provide a robust strategic framework, delivering new opportunities, greater assistance, access to high quality facilities and new partnerships both within and outside the organisation.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
As a joint venture between the University of Sydney and the Northern Sydney Local Health District, the research strategy will see enhanced support from the joint venture partners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Professor Robyn Ward, Executive Dean and Pro Vice Chancellor of Medicine and Health at the University of Sydney said one of the key initiatives will see the Kolling promoted as the vehicle for pursuing our translational research priorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\u201cThe Faculty of Medicine and Health and Northern Sydney Local Health District have now established the Northern Sydney Precinct unit, to provide dedicated local support for research performance, infrastructure and career development as well as grant management,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis will be a unique opportunity to explore new ways of pursuing our long-standing partnership, to deliver for our own communities, and to make our mark on the world stage.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Chief Executive of the Northern Sydney Local Health District Deb Willcox said the research strategy will strengthen the Kolling\u2019s reputation, both nationally and internationally, as a centre for translational research excellence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\u201cWith the Kolling located alongside Royal North Shore Hospital, researchers are embedded within a large health system,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis paves the way for strong collaborations between researchers and clinical teams, and efficiently delivers improvements to patient care and long term health outcomes.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n