2011 University of Technology Sydney Results

Open Winner ($3,000)
Dr Andrew Hutchinson (Faculty of Science) – A Novel Therapy for Myeloma
Multiple Myeloma (MM) is the second most common blood cancer and is considered fatal, with median life expectancy of 3-5 years. Current MM treatment regimes are highly toxic with detrimental side effects. Dr Hutchinson’s research team has identified a class of molecules that show potent anti-MM activity and potential to delay tumour growth.

Open Runner-Up ($1,000)
Dr Hui Chen, Dr Stella Valenzuela & Prof Michael Cortie (Faculty of Science) – Smart Nanosystems for Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Therapy
This new approach in the treatment of obese patients aims to help them achieve satisfactory and sustained weight loss, with cost and time efficiencies. It also aims to reduce the risks of developing Type 2 diabetes or severity of diabetes for those who already have this condition.

Open Highly Commended ($500)
Mr Chris Dunstan (Institute for Sustainable Futures) – Broadway Index for Sustainability and Ecopulse
Just as Times Square displays carbon emissions and Stockholm’s Obelisk provides real time visualization of air and water quality,  the EcoPulse will provide UTSⁱ with a comprehensive scorecard of our community’s sustainability performance.

Student Winner ($3,000)
Mr Cong Liu, A/Prof Huu Hao Ngo & Dr Wenshan Guo (Faculty of Engineering and IT) – A Novel Biosorbent for Metal Removal
This innovation utilises  agri-waste as a biosorbent for removing heavy metals from water and wastewater.

 Student Runner-Up ($1,000)
Mr Samuel Brennan & Ms Samantha Khoury (Faculty of Science) – Early Cancer Diagnoses Using Body Fluids
MicroRNAs are small molecules that regulate the behaviour of all cells. In cancer, however, some microRNAs fail to perform their normal duties, allowing cancerous cells to grow. The researchers have discovered that MicroRNAs found in blood, saliva and urine show promise as indicators of cancer; and they are now investigating the development of these MicroRNAs as biomarkers for the early diagnosis of cancer.

Student Highly Commended ($500)
Mr Daniel Virgona (Faculty of Design, Architecture & Building) – Worksafe Extension Lead
The Worksafe extension lead incorporates three key design features which assist to mitigate the potential risk when working with extension leads. These are: Providing a form of visual communication to make the identification of extension leads easier; Incorporating an inline protection device; As well as a redesign of the plug and socket to reduce the impact of mechanical damage that can be sustained to the terminals.

Pitching Excellence ($1,000)
Mr Cong Liu, A/Prof Huu Hao Ngo & Dr Wenshan Guo (Faculty of Engineering and IT) – A Novel Biosorbent for Metal Removal
See above.