SMART CRC Research Programs
The SMART CRC centres around four closely integrated research programs designed to address the most critical challenges facing the regenerative medicine sector:
Biomanufacturing
Bioseparation
Biomaterials
Clinical Enablement
Each program is co-led by experts from both research and industry, ensuring the work remains aligned with real-world clinical and commercial needs. Projects within these programs are in development, with multidisciplinary teams collaborating to design practical, scalable solutions that unlock the transformative potential of regenerative medicine in Australia and globally.
These research streams are interdependent and strategically designed to accelerate translation, enhance manufacturing capability, and address barriers to adoption in clinical settings.
Future Workforce Development
The SMART CRC Future Workforce Program is a strategic, multi-faceted initiative designed to build the specialised talent needed to support Australia’s regenerative medicine sector at scale. The program is directly aligned with industry needs and will develop both technical and commercial expertise across the full innovation pipeline.
Key components of the Future Workforce Program include:
Technical (manufacturing) expertise
Online and hands-on training focused on process development and GMP manufacturing capabilities essential to scaling regenerative therapies
Specialist (commercialisation) expertise
Tailored education in the translation and commercialisation processes unique to regenerative medicine, including regulatory and IP strategy
Business of Regenerative Medicine Symposia – A national forum to connect academia, industry, and policymakers while equipping trainees with knowledge of real-world commercial and clinical challenges
Industry-aligned PhD program
Recruitment and oversight of a significant cohort of Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates, with projects aligned to industry priorities
Industry Placements of students and PhD candidates offering unmatched professional development and practical experience
Collaboration with universities to embed regenerative medicine skill development within existing higher education programs
Through this comprehensive approach, SMART CRC is creating a workforce equipped to lead in manufacturing, translation, and innovation, ensuring Australia has the capacity and capability to realise the full potential of regenerative therapies.
Technology Transfer & Commercialisation
SMART CRC is committed to translating research into real-world outcomes that benefit patients and the broader healthcare system. A dedicated focus on technology transfer ensures research outputs are developed and deployed efficiently and effectively. Support includes:
Commercialisation, regulatory, and IP services
Technology evaluation and development, including support for company formation and product launch
Market analysis, investor engagement, and portfolio management, to help innovations reach the right markets and secure sustainable growth
Through these efforts, SMART CRC is enabling a seamless pathway from discovery to clinical adoption, maximising both health impact and economic return.