Plant SynBio Australia launches Adelaide node to accelerate biomanufacturing for agriculture and industry
Media Release from PSBA website, 29 April 2026
Plant SynBio Australia (Plant SynBio) will today launch its Adelaide node at Adelaide University’s Waite campus, marking a major milestone in Australia’s plant synthetic biology capability.
With nodes across Adelaide University, Australian National University, La Trobe University and the University of Western Australia, Plant SynBio is delivering advanced infrastructure, capabilities and expertise to accelerate solutions for climate- and disease-resilient agriculture, sustainable biomanufacturing and global food security.
Adelaide University Pro Vice Chancellor, Research Services and Infrastructure, Professor Michael Goodsite, said the launch builds on Adelaide University’s extensive capacity in plant research infrastructure and innovation.
“The establishment of Plant SynBio at the Waite Research Precinct strengthens our ability to deliver cutting-edge scientific discoveries with real-world applications,” Professor Goodsite said.
“The node, and the national Plant SynBio network, creates a powerful platform for collaboration, connecting researchers, industry and government to accelerate innovation in plant synthetic biology.”
Specialising in major cropping species including wheat, barley, canola and rice, as well as horticultural plants, the new Plant SynBio Adelaide Node will operate as a full-service biofoundry.
Its capabilities will span the entire synthetic biology pipeline, from molecular design and gene editing through to plant transformation and phenotypic evaluation in controlled environments and field conditions.
Node Director Professor Matthew Gilliham said the facility is designed to support new discoveries and help translate them into practical benefits.
“Our node brings together advanced infrastructure and technical expertise to accelerate plant-based innovation,” Professor Gilliham said.
“We can provide partners with access to the full synthetic biology cycle, from molecular design and genetic editing through to transformation and field validation.”
The facility includes PC2-certified tissue culture and molecular biology laboratories, controlled environment plant growth facilities, and access to one of the few sites in Australia capable of testing genetically modified crops in field conditions.
These capabilities are designed to support a wide range of applications, including improved crop yields, enhanced resistance to environmental stress, and the development of plant-based products such as vaccines, pharmaceuticals and novel foods.
The investment in Plant SynBio Australia was delivered through the Australian Government’s National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) as part of a broader $55 million “Step Change” initiative to advance synthetic biology across industrial fermentation, plant agriculture, medical research and biosecurity. The investment is managed by Bioplatforms Australia, with additional support from the South Australian Government.
The Adelaide node will provide fee-for-service access to research organisations, government and industry, alongside incubation opportunities for startups and pathways for collaboration.
“We look forward to supporting Australia’s agricultural and horticultural industries and welcome them to reach out and discuss how they can make the most of our services,” Professor Gilliham said.
For more information contact:
Belinda Cay: 0423 295 576