MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
2020 has started like no other year. The first days dominated by the tragic and destructive bushfires followed closely by the COVID-19 pandemic, a rapidly evolving and concerning health challenge. There are many wide ranging implications for our team and organisation. I would like to thank everyone for their professionalism and patience in the current circumstances. I would encourage everyone to stay up to date with the latest information provided through the NSW Health website – www.health.nsw.gov.au While the Kolling has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, work has been progressing on the development of the institute’s new research strategy. We have been meeting with our joint venture partners, many Kolling researchers and our stakeholders to design the new strategy. It is an important document which will shape the direction of the institute over the next five years. It will help to position the Kolling as a world leading institute, at the forefront of medical research locally and internationally.
In recent months our efforts have focused on: • Mapping: Data has been collated on our research strengths and capacity • Consultation: Discussions with joint venture partners and key stakeholders • Engagement with researchers: Two workshops have been held inviting researchers and stakeholders to discuss research strengths • Feedback: This step is ongoing and involves a wider range of participants; Kolling Institute researchers, North Foundation representatives, joint venture partners, community and interest groups. We have been holding a series of one-on-one interviews with a large group of Kolling Institute researchers to further inform the research strategy. All research groups are being represented during this consultation.
We are planning virtual workshops within specific areas of interest to develop activities and initiatives to meet our strategic objectives. I would like to thank everyone involved for your contribution to the development of the new strategic framework. This year is also an important year as it marks the 100 year anniversary of the institute – the oldest medical research organisation in New South Wales. A range of events had been planned to celebrate the significant milestone, and the many achievements over the past century. These events are currently being impacted by the COVID-19 situation. Many people have helped to bring the Kolling to where it is today – a centre for well-respected research, with a large team of impressive clinician/ researchers and scientists. We hope to recognise the overwhelming commitment to improving the health of our community. I hope you enjoy this latest newsletter and gain a better insight into the extensive scope of work underway, including several long term projects which have just been published in leading international journals.
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KOLLINGNEWS | ISSUE 3 | OCTOBER 2019
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