This Hallmark Research Initiative is led by the Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC) at the University of Melbourne, and is bringing together a diverse group of researchers to investigate the societal impacts of microplastics and per/poly-fluoroalkyl substances in everyday life (so called “forever chemicals”). The Melbourne eResearch Group are working with the ALEC team, the departments of population health, and maths/statistics to develop a unified data dictionary of PFAS databases, in support of developing a sustainable Australasian Biomonitoring Platform.

The T1DNSP project is a collaboration with the University of Sydney. It focuses on supporting a clinical trial comparing 3 different screening models across Australia for feasibility, acceptability & cost-effectiveness of patients at risk of type-1 diabetes. One model is a heelprick genetic risk score in newborns with a follow-up for high risk kids at 1y. The 2nd model is a saliva genetic risk score in infants (~6months old) with a follow-up for high risk kids at 1y. The 3rd model is a dried bloodspot test in 2-3yo & 5-6yo. Each model will be implemented in a different geographical area across Australia. The project aims to screen ~12,500 kids, with follow-up of ~1200 kids. Outcomes will include screening results, uptake & recall rates, process evaluation, costs, psychological impact etc.