NSW is set to showcase the quality of its medical research on the world stage.

Minister for Health and Minister for Medical Research Jillian Skinner said the NSW Liberal & Nationals Government is investing $65,000 to sponsor the Australian pavilion at the world’s biggest biotechnology event – the BIO 2014 International Convention.

The convention will be held from June 23 to June 26 in the US city of San Diego.

“The NSW Liberal & Nationals Government invests over $200 million annually in medical research,” Mrs Skinner said.

“NSW leads the nation in medical device development, with almost half of all medical device firms based in NSW.

“A NSW presence at the trade show will greatly improve our state’s standing in the national and international health and medical research sector.”

Companies, medical research institutes, universities, public sector research organisations and researchers who would like to attend BIO 2014 to showcase their work are invited to apply for funding.

“We have several exhibition booths at the BIO 2014 International Convention and are offering financial support of up to $5000 to NSW-based health and medical research organisations.

“BIO 2014 will be the world’s biggest biotechnology tradeshow. It will provide a great opportunity for NSW organisations to showcase their specialty health and medical research products and clinical trials support,” Mrs Skinner said.

Researchers can also attend the event, allowing them the opportunity to see the latest developments and to network with investors, potential collaborators and industry partners.

NSW has been allocated 37 square metres of floor space in the Australian pavilion – almost a third of the available space.

“This is a great opportunity for NSW to show the world it is at the forefront of medical research,” Mrs Skinner said.

“I’d encourage all eligible individuals and groups to apply for the $5000 grants and take advantage of the opportunity to showcase their incredible to their international peers.”

Information on how to apply for BIO 2014 attendance support is available on the Office for Health and Medical Research website: http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/ohmr/Pages/bio2014.aspx