Medal awarded to Auckland researcher

Medal awarded to Auckland researcher for engineering science and technology

An Auckland researcher's development of a novel biotechnology method has been recognised with a medal from the Royal Society of New Zealand.
The 2011 R.J. Scott Medal for engineering science and technology work of great merit has been awarded to Professor Stephen Henry of the Auckland University of Technology. He is Director of the Biotechnology Research Institute (KODE Biotech).

In announcing the award Dr Garth Carnaby, President of the Royal Society of New Zealand, said it recognises the tremendous contribution made by Professor Stephen Henry to research and development in New Zealand.
"Professor Henry is a world leader in the field of glycoscience. He has developed a unique technology that represents a step change in the ability of scientists to create, manipulate and study the effects of carbohydrate structures on intercellular processes," he said.

The KODE technology has already been successfully translated into a range of medical practice technologies including quality control systems, diagnostic antibody detection panels, and research and development tools.

The most recent discovery that the technology is compatible with inkjet printing has opened up significant new opportunities.

The demonstrated therapeutic potential of the technology to inhibit viruses, toxins, microbes and antibodies opens up further opportunities.

With an active research and development pipeline and international collaborators and commercial licensees, it is expected that the technology will be used in almost all diagnostic laboratories within 10 years.

ENDS