Technology Opportunities

The following is a selection of technology opportunities currently available. To find out more information or to discuss further opportunities, please contact us.

• Bismuth-based Pyrochlore dielectric ceramics
• Small Molecules for Hemopoietic Stem Cell Mobilisation
• Genetic Markers and GMO for Enhanced Water Use Efficiency in Plants
• Drought/stress tolerance genes in Plants
• Biomarkers for Cerebral Ischaemia

Bismuth-based Pyrochlore dielectric ceramics

Compact, high density Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors (MLCC’s) are used as chip components in the circuits of virtually all electronic equipment. The invention describes a method to significantly improve the temperature stability characteristics of low temperature, co-fired ceramic dielectric materials currently used in such MLCCs over a very broad temperature range. The electric field tunability of the dielectric constants of the bismuth-based pyrochlore family makes them potentially useful as frequency agile RF/microwave components. The patented technique completely solves the relatively poor temperature-stability characteristics of the dielectric properties of these bismuth-based pyrochlore ceramics. It enables excellent temperature stability to be achieved over a very broad temperature range (from ~ -150oC to +200oC) without significant deterioration of dielectric properties such as dielectric constant and dielectric loss.
Prototype capacitance components have been developed and their dielectric properties characterized. The dielectric ceramic can be optimized depending on application and desired temperature coefficient of dielectric constant.
More information is available here. Please contact Dr Karen Edwards to discuss this opportunity.

Small Molecules for Hemopoietic Stem Cell Mobilisation

A small molecule has been identified that causes rapid mobilisation of hemopoietic stem cells.

Proof of concept work has begun with initial studies (in mice) showing good potential. Comparative studies with GCSF have yet to be completed, however, evidence suggests that the small molecule will have a more rapid course of action. A provisional patent has been filed with respect to use of the small molecule.

To find out more information or to discuss further opportunities in this area, please contact us

Genetic Markers and GMO for Enhanced Water Use Efficiency in Plants

A novel gene, ERECTA, has been identified that is strongly associated with water use efficiency in plants.

Use of the gene as a selection marker can assist breeders in isolating plants with increased drought tolerance. Research is being conducted in the creation of a GMO with enhanced water use properties.

A core patent has been filed and is presently being examined in the National phase. An R&D agreement is in place with GRDC to explore applications in grains within Australia.

More information is available here. Please contact Dr Karen Edwards to discuss this opportunity.

Drought/Stress Tolerance Genes in Plants

Genes capable of altering the stress tolerance response, especially drought tolerance, of plants have been identified. A number of genes have been identified including the alx8 gene. alx8 mutant Arabidopsis plants exhibit drought tolerance and improved water use efficiency.

The technology is currently protected by an Australian Provisional Patent

More information is available here. Please contact Dr Karen Edwards to discuss this opportunity.

Biomarkers for Cerebral Ischaemia

A suite of protein biomarkers for perinatal hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) and transient ischaemic attacks (TIA) have been identified.

The invention is protected by two Australian Provisional Patents.

More information on this opportunity is available here. Please contact Dr Karen Edwards to discuss further.