As we mark the success of our official Launch, we would like to take a moment to revisit what that incredible day represents.

The concept of MOBIUS grew out of several initiatives at La Trobe University, including the La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science’s Molecular Sensing theme.

From this foundation, our Director, Professor Conor Hogan, and a team of outstanding researchers from diverse disciplines at six universities, have come together with 20 industry partners.

Together we make MOBIUS: an ecosystem where fundamental biosensor discoveries are transformed into real-world applications that benefit us all; and where we foster the next generation of researchers and leaders who will bridge the gap between university and industry.

Our vision was perfectly represented at the launch by our biosensor tech showcase. Our early-career researchers demonstrated point-of-use biosensors at their infancy and prototype stages, in some cases held together by duct tape and blu tack!

We are excited to see where these and other emerging biosensor technologies will be in five years.

With thanks to Senator Lisa Darmanin (Senator for Victoria) representing The Hon Jason Clare MP for launching MOBIUS; the Australian Research Council (ARC) and Professor Ute Roessner AM FAA (ARC CEO) for their support; a Welcome to Country by Wurundjeri Elder Annette Xiberras; and the Honourable John Brumby (La Trobe University Chancellor) for a wonderful opening for this industry focused research hub.

We would also like to extend our gratitude to MOBIUS Advisory Board members Sue MacLeman (who MCd brilliantly), Dean Whiting, Dr Alastair Hodges, Professor Stella Valenzuela, Professor Muhammad J. A. Shiddiky, FRSC, FRACI; and our many industry and university partners for their support and attendance.

We would also like to thank our Director, Professor Conor Hogan and Deputy Director Professor Chamindie Punyadeera, for their stellar leadership; Professor Chris Pakes (La Trobe DVCRIE), and key Research Office colleagues Deepa Balakrishnan, Dr Georgina Caruana, and Dr Jarrad Cogle, without whose support MOBIUS and the Launch would not have been possible; and our incredible Operations, Events and volunteer teams for making the day unforgettable.

We cannot wait for the next five years!

Read the media release. The Launch was also featured in Manufacturers’ Monthly, Philanthropy News Digest, National Tribune, and Australian Manufacturing.