Centre of Excellence harnesses proteins in Australia’s flora and fauna for multiple benefits

 22 August 2022

Centre of Excellence harnesses proteins in Australia’s flora and fauna for multiple benefits

The Australian Research Council (ARC) today launched the ARC Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science (CIPPS), which will position Australia as an international hub for peptide and protein science to drive new Australian industries.

The Centre seeks to discover new proteins and peptides (smaller versions of proteins) in Australia's flora and fauna, to develop new proteins and peptides that might eventually be used for medical treatments and to safely boost food production.

Together with industry partners and international collaborators, the Centre is working to unleash the power of peptides and proteins to benefit humanity.

ARC Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Judi Zielke, said the Centre’s research had exciting potential.

“The research at CIPPS offers the prospect of using molecules found in Australian nature for everything from low-cost medical treatments to ecofriendly bio-pesticides for sustainable and profitable food production,” Ms Zielke said.

“Previous investment in biomolecular research has already led to a substantial investment, through the Centre’s partners, in future clinical trials of a potentially life-saving drug derived from the venom of a funnel web spider.

“CIPPS researchers are also investigating alternative protein sources to feed the world, in partnership with CSIRO and their Future Protein Mission.

“As with all ARC Centres of Excellence, CIPPS will also nurture the next generation of researchers so this great work can continue into the future.”

The ARC is providing funding support of $35 million over seven years under the ARC Centres of Excellence scheme, coupled with an additional $54 million and in-kind support from national and international partners.

CIPPS is one of nine new ARC Centres of Excellence that were awarded a total of $308.8 million funding in the agency’s 2020 round.

“ARC Centres of Excellence are among of Australia’s most prestigious meeting points of expertise, bringing high-quality researchers together and developing our international standing in priority research areas,” Ms Zielke said.

Media contact: 

ARC Communications
0412 623 056 or communications@arc.gov.au