What really happens on the path from research bench to commercialisation?

To launch the WA Therapeutics Accelerator, HTG are bringing together industry leaders, experienced founders and investors for an honest, practical discussion about what it takes to translate therapeutic research into a successful commercial venture.

Bench to Breakthrough: Commercialisation Lessons from Biotech’s Front Lines explores the decisions that can make – or break – a promising biotech opportunity. Drawing on real therapeutic development journeys, speakers will examine common pitfalls across:

• Clinical development planning and evidence generation
• Product–market fit and commercial positioning
• Regulatory strategy and manufacturing readiness
• Funding, partnering and investor engagement
• Building the right team, governance and execution capability

The session will feature four concise case studies, followed by a panel discussion, audience Q&A and networking.

Designed for researchers, clinician-innovators, startup founders, investors, technology-transfer professionals and industry partners, this event will help participants make better-informed decisions earlier, learn from challenges others have encountered, and contribute to a stronger biotechnology ecosystem in Western Australia.

Speakers include: 

• David Fuller – Life Sciences Industry Veteran, globally experienced CMO, Dimerix, Genzyme.
• Liddy McCall – Health Translation Group, Argenica, Dimerix, iCeutica, Macquarie Bank
• Richard Hopkins – Rex Ortho, Cytophenix and Blinklabs, previously Zelira, Phylogica.
• Meg Thomas – Atherid Therapeutics CEO. Previous Clinical, Ops and Regulatory roles including Argenica and Zelira.

Date: Thursday 29 October 2026

Time: 2:00 pm–4:00 pm

Location: Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research – McCusker Auditorium

About WATA: The WA Therapeutics Accelerator is supported by HTG and the WA Government’s Innovation Pathways Program from the New Industries and Innovation Fund, delivers strategic guidance to WA-based therapeutic researchers to accelerate their projects from the lab to investment readiness. Over 12 months, the accelerator will select a small cohort of high-potential research projects for hands-on mentoring and support. There is potential for investment support for teams that are ready to advance their projects to the next phase of commercialisation.