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This research aims to develop quorum-sensing inhibitors, antimicrobial peptides, mimics and nitric oxide-releasing polymers, incorporating them into polymers and biomaterials to reduce device-related infections.

Competitive advantage

  • Portfolio of antimicrobial and antibiofilm agents and scaffolds with novel mechanisms of action.
  • Antimicrobial coatings technologies with demonstrated in-vivo efficacy at preventing device-related infections.
  • Recognised international experts in the field of antimicrobial discovery and biomaterials.
  • Outstanding track record in novel surface strategies for antimicrobial control with multiple industry-supported and government funding.

Impact

Up to 65% of all hospital acquired infections are caused by microbial colonisation of surfaces. This is a major health problem that can be prevented by new technologies which will save billions of dollars in healthcare costs and provide substantial economic benefits for industries. 

Successful outcomes

  • completed Phase III clinical trials for antimicrobial contact lenses
  • antimicrobial prototype devices for major biomedical companies.

Capabilities and facilities

  • World class synthetic chemistry facilities including NMR and mass spectrometry, supported by a diverse range of imaging and surface characterisation facilities from the Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre.
  • Fully equipped microbiology, molecular biology and cell culture laboratories.
  • Clinically relevant animal models for device-related infections.

Our partners

  • Prof Annelise Barron, Stanford University
  • Prof David MacKenzie, University of Sydney
  • Prof Krasimir Vasilev, Flinders University

More information

Professor Naresh Kumar
School of Chemistry

+61 2 9385 4698
n.kumar@unsw.edu.au

Professor Mark Willcox
Professor and Director of Research

+61 2 9065 5394
m.willcox@unsw.edu.au