SDG 9 – Industry, innovation and infrastructure

UQ’s commercialisation efforts translate research into real-world impact, and our Collaborative Research Platforms (CRPs) provide cutting-edge interdisciplinary infrastructure and technology capabilities, enabling transformative research programs and projects that address research, industry and government needs.

We also work to improve capability in key sectors – for example, the 2024 launch of new Australia Research Council (ARC) Training Centres for Environmental and Agricultural Solutions to Antimicrobial Resistance, Predictive Breeding in Agricultural Futures, and Green Electrochemical Transformation of Carbon Dioxide. In teaching and learning, we aim to offer rich and varied education opportunities and experiences that foster entrepreneurship, civic duty and digital literacy in future leaders. Together, these activities reflect our commitment to building resilient infrastructure, promoting sustainable industrialisation and fostering innovation.

Read our SDG 9 2024 report (PDF, 246 KB)

See how we make a difference across key areas:

• Research and innovation
• Research translation and commercialisation
• Students and teaching
• Community engagement

Research and innovation

We are committed to fostering mutually beneficial partnerships for research translation and commercialisation at scale to create positive impact for our communities, the environment and economy. In SDG 9, UQ’s research activities:

• directly contributed toward the development of cutting-edge technological advancements for the medical and advanced materials sectors
• provided innovative solutions for industry and government challenges
• strengthened digital capabilities and biotechnology networks on a global scale.

Technological innovation

4D printing technology at AIBN

Researchers at UQ’s Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnologies (AIBN) have developed a groundbreaking 4D printing technology using liquid metals for soft robotics. This innovation allows 3D-printed structures to change shape in response to infrared lasers. Using spherical liquid metal nanoparticles to create resins that respond to near-infrared light, this technology enables precise control over material behaviour and is capable of performing tasks like grasping and lifting objects up to 5 times their weight. It could revolutionise applications in industries such as aeronautical engineering and medical devices, and holds numerous other possibilities for future innovations across various sectors.

Chondral Quant

In 2024, UQ researchers from EAIT, in partnership with CSIRO and Siemens Healthineers, developed Chondral Quant, a machine learning software tool that aims to create the first MRI-based biomarker for osteoarthritis. This tool uses MRI scans to non-invasively identify key regions of the knee affected by the disease, significantly reducing analysis time from hours to minutes. Chondral Quant also examines cartilage’s biochemical properties, offering insights into the condition’s progression. Approved by the FDA, the tool is now available in several countries, providing hope for earlier detection, better diagnoses and improved treatments for osteoarthritis, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.

Innovative solutions for industry and government

Quantum technology

UQ is a global leader in quantum technology, defining the field, building Australia and Queensland’s quantum economy, and driving industrial transformation. Our world-renowned researchers are making fundamental quantum discoveries and applying quantum technologies to change the way the world works to solve society’s biggest challenges. We are creating the workforce of the future and instilling skills sought after by industry, while drawing on UQ’s cutting edge research infrastructure to create new quantum capabilities.

In 2024, UQ signed a memorandum of understanding with PsiQuantum and 4 other universities to support the growing demand for skills in the quantum computing economy and to explore research projects in adjacent fields. We secured $29 million in funding through the Queensland Government Quantum and Advanced Technologies Strategy to address decarbonisation, computing and athlete performance, positioning UQ at the forefront of quantum on the global stage. We also continued our work leading the Australian Research Council (ARC) funded Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology, a multi-year (2023-2030), multi-institutional project that is driving Australian innovation across manufacturing, energy, agriculture, health and national security.

Finally, we wrapped up the final year of the Australian Research Council (ARC) funded Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems, which worked to solve the most challenging research problems at the interface of basic quantum physics and engineering.

Food and Beverage Accelerator

The Food and Beverage Accelerator (FaBA), led by UQ, is a transformative initiative aimed at boosting Australia’s food and beverage manufacturing sector. It unites academic and industry expertise to drive innovation in product development, bio-manufacturing and precision fermentation. FaBA supports early-stage companies, promotes onshore value-adding, and trains future professionals in food science and biotechnology.

With funding from the Australian Government’s Trailblazer Universities Program, FaBA seeks to double industry value, create 1,700 skilled jobs and launch 20 startups. Over 4 years, it is expected to generate $1 billion in manufacturing investment, deliver 30 new products, and foster strong industry partnerships, driving sustainable growth and commercial impact.

Critical Minerals and Circular Economy Research Alliance

In 2024, the Queensland Government partnered with UQ’s Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI) to launch the Critical Minerals and Circular Economy Research Alliance. Backed by an $8 million investment, this 4-year initiative supports the development of a sustainable critical minerals industry in Queensland. With a focus on identifying and recovering critical minerals, implementing circular economy practices and fostering innovation in renewable technologies, the collaboration aims to contribute to Queensland’s energy transition and future job creation by creating a responsible value chain from mining to manufacturing.

Reef Catchments Science Partnership

The Reef Catchments Science Partnership (RCSP) is a collaborative initiative between UQ’s Faculty of Science and the Queensland Government’s Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation aimed at improving water quality and ecosystem resilience in the Great Barrier Reef catchments. Established in 2021, RCSP integrates advanced technologies like remote sensing, modelling and machine learning to identify pollution risks and support proactive land management.

It bridges science and policy, supports behavioural insights research and mentors future environmental leaders. A 2024 study under RCSP examined water quality offsetting as a policy tool to balance emissions from development, highlighting risks from low-integrity offsets near urban centres. The research supports SDG 9 by promoting innovative, data-driven infrastructure solutions that enable sustainable development while protecting ecosystems.

Global engagement and capability building

Digital Transformation Policy and Practice Short Course

In 2023–2024, UQ’s Business School delivered a Digital Transformation Policy and Practice Short Course to enhance digital capabilities across 25 Indonesian Government agencies. Supported by the Australian Government, the course combined academic expertise with practical insights from public and private sector partners, focusing on the impact of digital transformation on policy development, regulatory frameworks, data use and inter-agency coordination. Sustainability was a key theme, highlighting how digital tools can support economic growth, education and health, while fostering long-term international collaboration.

Quality Infrastructure Short Course

The Building a Coalition for Quality Infrastructure Funding and Financing Short Course aimed to build a coalition of mid-level professionals committed to planning and implementing quality infrastructure projects through high quality finance. The course was delivered in collaboration with the DFAT-funded Indonesia Australia Partnerships for Infrastructure (KIAT) program, a facility that supports the Government of Indonesia's goal of sustainable and inclusive growth through improved access to quality infrastructure for all people. Through a mix of expert presentations, site visits, industry engagement and case study discussions, participants learnt best practice for mainstreaming gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI) and climate considerations into infrastructure planning, project identification, preparation and implementation.

Latin American Colloquium

In 2024, UQ strengthened its global commercialisation and innovation networks by hosting the 17th Latin American Colloquium, themed 'Biotechnology for health, environment and food security', which brought together 134 leaders from government, industry and research focused on Latin America. Additionally, UQ participated in the Global Bioeconomy Alliance Conference in Brazil, fostering international collaborations with leading institutions such as:

• São Paulo State University (UNESP)
• Technical University of Munich (TUM)
• Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
• University of Exeter
• Novo Nordisk Foundation.

These initiatives highlight UQ’s commitment to advancing biotechnology and global partnerships for sustainable development and innovation.

Global Engagement Framework

In 2024, we strengthened our global impact by supporting high-level collaboration through our Global Engagement Framework with priority countries, involving activities such as:

• renewal of the Baosteel-Australia Joint Research and Development Centre agreement to continue pioneering research collaboration in innovative materials, new energy, resource utilisation and advanced environment technologies
• leading a Senior Executive Mission to Papua New Guinea in August, which included hosting a reception at the Australian High Commissioner’s residence, meeting with leaders from the University of Papua New Guinea, Papua New Guinea University of Technology, Pacific Adventist University and the National Research Institute, and hosting roundtable discussions on agriculture and food science, resources, international and sports development in Papua New Guinea.

Spotlight: UQ’s Collaborative Research Platforms

UQ's Collaborative Research Platforms (CRPs) span a wide range of fields – from microscopy and imaging to plant science, genomics, drones and high-performance computing. What unites them is a shared mission: to support interdisciplinary collaboration by providing fair access to world-class physical and digital infrastructure. But CRPs are about more than just cutting-edge equipment. At their core, they’re powered by people — the expertise, insight and innovation that drive research forward. The CRPs enable research excellence and impact not only within UQ, but also through close partnerships with industry, government and other universities.

CRPs are embedded within the Research and Innovation portfolio. Both individually and as a group, they are important contributors to UQ’s commitment to the UN SDGs. Because of their diversity, the CRPs and the research they enable align with many of the goals. As a combined portfolio, there is strong alignment with SDG 9:

• Building resilient infrastructure – CRPs are centralised, high-quality facilities with research infrastructure that supports a variety of fields. They are designed with sustainability and scalability in mind.
• Promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialisation – CRPs collaborate with industry partners. This supports technology transfer and research commercialisation and contributes towards economic growth.
• Fostering innovation – CRPs enable the development and application of new techniques and methodologies, helping to keep UQ at the forefront of global research. They are also critical in the training of the next generation of engineers, scientists and innovators.

2024 activity highlights

• 2 new CRPs were established: the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance CRP and the UQ Drones Platform. The UQ Drones Platform hosts part of a National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) activity, Coastal Research Infrastructure (Coast RI) which aims to provide a national scale coastal observing and modelling capability, to plan for and mitigate change and sustainably manage Australia’s coast.
• The Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis receiving NCRIS and State Government funding for the Natural Resources Innovation and Characterisation Hub (NRICH), which will uplift Queensland’s critical minerals and battery industry development capabilities by establishing a sustainable ‘resources to renewables’ characterisation pipeline, in collaboration with other UQ infrastructures. Additionally, 2 small sample preparation devices developed through R&D collaborations with overseas instrument providers have been taken to market by these industry partners – a modest but meaningful innovation outcome.
• The $65 million Plant Futures Facility completed construction in 2024. It will help Australian plant scientists and industry improve crop productivity and secure future food supplies, extend UQ’s involvement in the Australian Plant Phenomics Network, and support the work of the ARC Centre for Plant Success in Nature and Agriculture.

UQ’s CRPs include:

• Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis
• Research Computing Centre
• Herston Imaging Research Facility
• UQ Sequencing Facility
• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
• UQ Biological Resources
• Pinjarra Hills
• UQ Data Science
• Plant Futures Facility
• UQ Drones Platform
• Protein Expression Facility
• UQ Materials Performance.

Spotlight: UQ’s innovation precincts

We aim to accelerate and grow innovation precincts that support collaboration with industry, community and government, and enable shared access to state-of-the-art research facilities.

How we are achieving this

• We successfully established a fourth campus, UQ Dutton Park, reaffirming UQ’s presence in the Boggo Road Innovation Precinct. The campus is the primary teaching and research location for the School of Pharmacy and also houses the Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences and the Cornwall Street Medical Centre.
• We continued supporting the development of the Translational Manufacturing facility at The Translational Research Institute (TRI), scheduled for completion in late 2025. TRI is a joint venture involving UQ, Queensland University of Technology Institute for Biomedical Innovation, the Princess Alexandra Hospital, Mater Medical Research Institute and the Queensland Government, with the Translational Manufacturing facility set to become Australia’s first manufacturing facility of its type for maturing innovative biotech, pharma and medtech companies. It will comply with international and Australian regulations and standards.
• We appointed a Director of Biotechnology Innovation and Precinct Development to work with government and industry on UQ's precinct strategy.

Research translation and commercialisation

Our diverse commercialisation activities reinforce our mission of ‘delivering for the public good’ through leadership in innovation, a commitment to strengthening the startup ecosystem and translating research to support solutions to real-world challenges. Our goal is to foster mutually beneficial partnerships for research translation and commercialisation at scale, to create positive impact for our communities, the environment and economy.

How we are achieving this

In 2024, we:

• partnered with Emory University to create the $32 million Queensland Emory Vaccine Centre at UQ to accelerate the development of vaccine candidates for clinical trials, focusing on emerging diseases, pandemic preparedness and infectious diseases in the Asia–Pacific region
• appointed a Cisco Chair in Future Networks to facilitate further research co-funded by UQ and Cisco
• maintained our strong focus on research excellence and a commitment to progressing fundamental research that will support future translational outcomes for Queensland
• maintained our position as the leading Australian university for commercialisation revenue in the 2023 Survey of Commercialisation Outcomes from Public Research.

Spotlight: UniQuest, UQ’s commercialisation arm

UniQuest is UQ’s commercialisation company, transforming UQ’s research into real-world impact since 1984. It has launched over 100 startups, facilitated more than 1,000 industry partnerships and leads Australia in university-generated commercialisation revenue. UniQuest manages intellectual property, licenses technologies and supports spinouts across biotech, agriculture, engineering and digital sectors. Notable successes include Spinifex Pharmaceuticals, Vaxxas, and Microba.

2024 highlights include:

• maintaining UQ’s position as the leading Australian university for commercialisation revenue in the 2023 Survey of Commercialisation Outcomes from Public Research (announced in 2024)
• raising US$100 million through UniQuest startup Vicebio for a combined RSV and hMPV clinical trial using the molecular clamp vaccine technology
• facilitating the acquisition of UniQuest startup Advanced Mobility Analytics Group, which uses real-time AI-interpreted data to reduce road crashes and monitor road infrastructure, by Canadian company Transoft Solutions
• expanding the UniQuest spin-off portfolio with companies like NuNerve, which advanced its motor neurone disease drug NUN-004 through phase 1 trials
• entering into a new strategic partnership with the global biotech company Molecule to Medicine (MTM) to foster the establishment of new biotech companies in Brisbane and translate academic research into new medicines and treatments, such as those that can combat neuroinflammation linked to degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
• Swiss company Culture Software Group acquiring Ortelia Curator, a UQ startup specialising in exhibition design software that enables curators and designers to create interactive 2D and 3D exhibition spaces. Established in 2009 by UniQuest, Ortelia now serves over 150 global institutions. Its virtual exhibition tools proved vital during the pandemic.

These ventures and innovations reflect UniQuest’s strategy of combining world-class science with targeted investment and industry collaboration.

University spin-offs

In December 2024, there were 21 active spin-offs that were created between the years 2001 and 2021. Spin-offs are defined as registered companies set-up to exploit intellectual property that has originated from within the institution.

Medical and health technologies

• Biopsy – Minimally invasive skin microbiopsy device for skin cancer diagnosis
• EMVision Medical Devices – Portable brain scanners for stroke diagnosis
• Gertude BioMedical – Small molecule inhibitors for cancer treatment
• InfensaBioscience – Peptide-based drugs from spider venom for heart and stroke treatment
• Magnetica – Compact, helium-free MRI systems
• Microba – Gut microbiome testing and therapeutics
• NeoRehab – Telerehabilitation platform (eHAB®)
• NuNerve – Therapies for motor neuron disease
• Q-Sera – Blood collection tubes using snake venom proteins
• QUE Oncology – Non-hormonal therapies for hot flashes
• Vaxxas – Needle-free vaccine delivery via microarray patches
• ViceBio – Next-gen vaccines using Molecular Clamp technology

Environmental and agricultural innovations

• Ausroads – Borehole condition measuring system
• Aussie Colours – Commercialisation of Australia’s native flora
• Bioherbicides Australia – Biological and chemical herbicide solutions
• Perkii – Probiotic drink using encapsulation technology
• Pure Battery – Low-carbon battery materials using refining tech

Advanced technology and engineering

• AQC – Microscopic superconducting hardware for quantum computing
• GridQube – Power system state estimation and network analysis
• Arborescent – Handheld narcotics detection device

Digital media and software

• BlueQuest – Developer of mobile games and multimedia content

Students and teaching

How we are achieving this

Entrepreneurship program

Our entrepreneurship program continues to go from strength to strength, with 5,967 students participating in one of the many UQ Ventures programs or workshops that were on offer in 2024. These included:

• Ventures’ Sustainability program – enabled students to explore the world of social enterprises and gain the knowledge to integrate UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their idea or business. The 7-week program comprised community building, weekly workshop sessions, guest speakers and personalised mentoring sessions, enabling students to hone their skills in sustainable entrepreneurship.
• Ventures Industry Challenge 2024 – focused on Ocean Innovation, engaging students in an 8-week program to address real-world marine challenges. Participants developed solutions around water quality, pollution reduction, sustainable ocean use and climate resilience, culminating in a Pitch Showcase in October at the Queensland Museum. The challenge was supported by industry and research partners including the Port of Brisbane, Australian Marine Conservation Society, Ocean Impact Organisation, Orchid Energy and the UQ Centre for Marine Science.
• Global Startup AdVentures program– where students learn first-hand from innovative startup communities. In 2024, we delivered 5 1-month Startup AdVentures programs to San Francisco, Singapore, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Vietnam, with 109 students engaging in entrepreneurial networks and participating in life-changing work experience.

Sustainability Innovation Challenge

The Sustainability Innovation Challenge 2024, led by the UQ Innovation and Entrepreneurship Society (UQIES), invited students to develop creative solutions to pressing environmental issues. Problem areas included circular design innovation, resource use and efficiency and waste management solutions. The challenge was student-led and collaborative, involving UQ Ventures and UQ Sustainable Innovators Club. It provided hands-on experience in sustainable innovation and encouraged interdisciplinary teamwork, fostering leadership and environmental awareness among UQ’s student community.

Innovation Showcase

UQ’s School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) Innovation Showcase 2024 highlighted student-led technology and engineering projects. This opportunity provided a platform for students to present their work to industry professionals and the UQ community, encouraging collaboration and networking. Supported by faculty and external partners, the event celebrated creativity, technical excellence and real-world problem-solving, reinforcing UQ’s commitment to hands-on learning and innovation.

Green Ambassador Program

The UQ Green Ambassador Program 2024 empowered students to lead sustainability initiatives across campus. Through workshops and volunteering, ambassadors promoted environmental awareness and community engagement. The program focused on leadership development and practical action, helping students contribute to UQ’s sustainability goals. Managed by the UQ Sustainability Office, it provided a platform for students to collaborate, advocate, and inspire change within the university and beyond.

Community engagement

Drawing on our mission to deliver for the public good, UQ offers a variety of collaborative opportunities and resources that foster the growth of sustainable and resilient innovation among our communities.

How we are achieving this

Uniquest Extension Fund

UQ’s UniQuest Extension Fund (UEF) is a $32 million venture capital initiative supporting early-stage startups founded by UQ staff, students and alumni. It provides funding, resources and industry connections to help startups grow and expand globally. The fund also supports UQ’s talent pipeline by involving students in real-world projects. With $11.8 million committed to 19 startups, UEF drives innovation, job creation and global impact.

UQ Ventures

UQ Ventures works with the students, industry, alumni and the broader community (including local high school groups) to support entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey and create leaders of the future. In 2024, UQ Ventures supported 70 startups to further develop their business or social enterprise.

Office of 2032 Games Engagement

In June 2024, UQ officially launched its Office of 2032 Games Engagement (OGE) as a central coordination point for our Brisbane 2032 Games-related activities and partnerships, including those with local, state, national and global communities.

ODIN PASS project

UQ researchers lead one of the largest Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) trials to have ever occurred in Australia through the ODIN PASS project. The pass makes available a full range of transport options, including public transport, e-scooters and e-bikes, taxis and car sharing, in a single monthly bundle. These kinds of mobility packages could encourage a greater shift towards active, shared and public transport. In 2024, ODIN PASS offered bundles as part of a tourism-focused MaaS research trial, led by Griffith University, at Brisbane Open House 2024. This was part of an Advance Queensland Research Fellowship Project supported by Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, Griffith University, Beam Mobility, Neuron Mobility, Brisbane City Council and Townsville City Council.

Socially Responsible Procurement

Socially responsible procurement at UQ considers how the University can use its buying power to enrich the communities in which we operate. Guided by the Queensland Procurement Policy (2023), UQ takes a responsible public procurement approach and works to consider social enterprises, Indigenous businesses, Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs) and local businesses in applicable sourcing activities. Work with Indigenous businesses is supported by the UQ Indigenous Procurement Strategy (2022-2025). The strategy outlines the organisation’s goals relating to engaging with Indigenous businesses, building relationships and targeted spend levels.

UQ offers training and support to staff around socially responsible procurement including online courses and workshops supported by procurement staff and third parties. In addition, UQ supports inclusive procurement by promoting the use of supplier databases to connect staff with verified suppliers who promote social, economic and environmental impact.