Recent News
“Cook for a Cure” To Support O’Brien Research into Breast Cancer
The O'Brien Institute has announced its involvement in a Cook for a Cure, a nationwide community event, launched by well-known chef and author, Maggie Beer, for Research Australia.
By cooking and sharing a healthy meal, Cook for a Cure, allows Australians to select and support medical research into new cures and treatments in areas such as breast cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and asthma.
The O’Brien Institute (OBI), well known for its expertise in microsurgery, has in recent years turned its attention to furthering research into regenerative medicine and tissue regeneration.
OBI’s work in breast tissue regeneration is the only breast cancer-related project in a group of 15 projects highlighted under the Cook for a Cure campaign banner.
Professor Wayne Morrison, Director of the Institute, says "Cook for a Cure is a ground-breaking initiative which will provide a focus for the community to generate much needed medical research funds."
"Funding raised through Cook for a Cure will help the O’Brien Institute to extend its research in tissue regeneration and to progress the application of our research to women who have had mastectomy," he said.
With the funding raised by Cook for a Cure OBI will employ a senior research scientist to speed its research effort and ultimately the realisation of a new approach to breast reconstruction.
Those interested in supporting the initiative are urged to register an event (e.g. a meal or less formal event with friends, family or work colleagues), through the website at www.cookforacure.com.au during August and September. A host kit for Cook for a Cure events can be downloaded to assist in the organisation of the event and invitations can be uploaded and sent via the website to friends, family and work colleagues.
Background
Cook for a Cure is a new nationwide community event launching in August 2011. Cook for a Cure brings together leading Australian researchers under a single umbrella, making it easier for donors to identify the cause they wish to support, and to donate to a research program by some of Australia’s leading researchers.
The O'Brien Institute is currently part of the Neopec consortium, which is being funded by a Victorian government grant under Victoria’s Science Agenda. The other partners in the consortium are the University of Melbourne, VTEC Pty Ltd, Anatomics Pty Ltd, Cogentum Pty Ltd and Neopec Pty Ltd (which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Institute). The project continues though to mid 2012.
Media Enquiries: Prof Wayne Morrison 03 9288 4018