Murdoch Childrens Research Institute has been awarded $20.7
million for vital child health research from the Federal
Government's National Health and Medical Research Council
(NHMRC).
The funding will support 28 research projects into conditions
affecting an increasing number of Australian babies, children and
adolescents including allergies, obesity and genetic disorders.
Pleasingly, the funding round saw a marked increase in grants
awarded to the Murdoch Childrens in comparison to last year, when
the Institute received $12.3 million for 23 projects.
Key projects include $1.6 million to investigate food allergy in
children, $1.5 million to study adolescent mental health and
behaviour, and $1.3 million to examine the impact of low and
moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
Dr Craig Smith, from the molecular development research group,
was also awarded a prestigious Australian Research Council Future
Fellowship. In addition, three researchers received NHMRC Senior
Research Fellowships, three received NHMRC Career Development
Awards and another seven researchers received Training
Fellowships.
Applications to NHMRC undergo a rigorous selection process based
on scientific quality and significance and applicant track record.
Only 20 per cent of applications for project grants nationally are
successful.
"The Institute's success in such a competitive environment
indicates the high quality of research being conducted on campus,"
Director Professor Terry Dwyer said.
"This is a great outcome and one which positions Murdoch
Childrens at the forefront of child health research both nationally
and worldwide."