An update on the Sydney Biomedical Accelerator

Construction, leadership, and innovation milestones

In May, we proudly broke ground on the Sydney Biomedical Accelerator (SBA) – a landmark biomedical research facility set to transform health innovation in Australia. A partnership between the University of Sydney, Sydney Local Health District, and the NSW Government, the SBA represents a bold step forward in accelerating discoveries from lab to clinic.

We were honoured to welcome The Hon. Ryan Park MP, NSW Minister for Health, and Susan Pearce AM, Secretary of NSW Health, to the sod-turning ceremony alongside senior leaders from the University, the District, and Isaac Wakil, founding donor of the Susan and Isaac Wakil Foundation.

Set to open in 2028, the $780 million SBA will encompass two interconnected buildings across the University’s Camperdown campus and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, creating a globally significant hub for biomedical research, innovation, and translation.

Following a competitive tender process, Richard Crookes Constructions was appointed as our construction partner and is now working closely with architects Denton Corker Marshall and HDR to bring the SBA design to life. Construction is progressing well, with piling work having commenced in July to establish the structural base for the SBA.

We also marked another exciting milestone with the launch of the SBA Venture Studio, the first in a suite of commercialisation pilot programs designed to build our innovation pipeline and translate research into real-world impact.

Entrance to the Isaac Wakil Biomedical Building with a modern glass facade, green planters on the left, and a grassy area on the right. A few people are standing near the entrance.

Architectural concept of the Western Avenue entrance to the Isaac Wakil Biomedical Building

Modern building with a green, black, and beige facade, surrounded by trees and greenery in a courtyard setting under a partly cloudy sky.

Main building entrance from Royal Prince Alfred Hospital

Opportunity: Executive Director, Sydney Biomedical Accelerator

Recruitment is now open for the Executive Director of the SBA. It is an extremely exciting time to be joining the SBA project - as it moves from establishment to operation, the SBA will become a globally recognised hub for biomedical innovation. This role will provide strategic and executive leadership and operational oversight as the SBA is established, ahead of building completion in 2028. It will be pivotal in shaping the future of biomedical innovation in Australia. Applications close 31 August.

SBA Venture Studio launches at Sydney Solutions

On Tuesday 5 August, we announced the launch of the SBA Venture Studio at the University’s Sydney Solutions research impact showcase.

Co-designed by the University and the District, the Venture Studio is a new pilot program offering tailored, hands-on support to transform promising biomedical research into investable ventures, fast-tracking scientific discovery into better health outcomes.

Each selected project will be supported by a dedicated Venture Lead with deep expertise in biotech commercialisation. The lead will guide projects through a customised development plan, drawing on business, commercialisation, and clinical, insights from across the SBA ecosystem.

We are currently identifying pilot projects that align with the SBA’s vision. For more information, contact info@sydneybiomedicalaccelerator.org.

Three people standing in front of a Sydney Biomedical Accelerator banner in an indoor setting.

SBA Venture Studio launch (left to right): Pro Vice-Chancellor Research Enterprise (interim) Antoine van Oijen, Joy Francisco, Holly Pobjie

News from the biomedical research community

Biomanufacturing Incubator Launch

Professor Steven Wise and Associate Professor Khoon Lim seated in a laboratory wearing white lab coats and blue gloves, examining a 3D-printed anatomical model. A monitor screen and 3D printer are visible in the background.

In July, the University celebrated the launch of the Biomanufacturing Incubator, led by Professor Steven Wise and Associate Professor Khoon Lim.

The incubator aims to develop innovative biomanufacturing solutions by connecting bioengineers, cell biologists, and clinicians to advance tissue engineering and regenerative medicine through cutting-edge biomaterials and 3D bioprinting.

Attendees heard from the co-directors and researchers showcasing exciting projects and use cases, followed by a networking reception. Learn more

NSW Health Research and Innovation Strategy: 2025-2030

The launch of the NSW Health Research and Innovation Strategy 2025–2030 earlier this year marked a significant step towards creating a dynamic, collaborative ecosystem that delivers better health outcomes for our communities. Deputy Secretary of the Clinical Innovation and Research Division at the NSW Ministry of Health, Dr Jean-Frédéric Levesque, writes about how the Strategy will provide a roadmap for researchers, clinicians and health leaders. Read more

Did you know?

In 2024, archaeological excavations took place on the site of the Sydney Biomedical Accelerator, uncovering an1880’s laundry and boiler room on RPA hospital land.

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The SBA is a partnership between the University of Sydney, Sydney Local Health District, and NSW Government to fast-track innovative research into better health outcomes.

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