BioVoice News November 2016 Issue 7 Volume 1 | Page 19

bio chat “India has a unique opportunity to become leader in 3D Printing” This was stated by Professor Guy Littlefair, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Industry Development) at Deakin University during an exclusive interaction with BioVoice. Prof Littlefair is the visionary behind the $55M Centre for Advanced Design in Engineering Training (CADET) Initiative at Deakin officially opened in 2015 which is a benchmark for industry engagement and engineering education in Australia. In this interaction, he talked about latest trends in Innovation in Science and Advanced Manufacturing and the way ahead in Indian context. Read the detailed interview: BY SACHIN ARYA “ What are the latest trends in the innovation landscape involving medical sciences across globe? How do you look at Indian scenario? Undoubtedly, the emergence of 3D printing technologies is having, and will continue to have a tremendous impact in the bio sciences arena in the future. For instance, in the areas of prosthetics, medical implants, surgical devices and administration, disruption has already occurred. With the massive population and the need for dynamic, low cost high volume solutions, India offers researchers great opportunities for developing solutions which can then be applied in other parts of the globe. Is there a possibility for institutes like CADET in India too? There exists an unlimited growth potential for this industry which is waiting to be tapped. What does innovation mean to you in context of biosciences including medical technology? Ultimately, it is about understanding how technology can enhance the lives of people in terms of expanding their life span but also improving their quality of life. This is what innovation means to me in the context of biosciences. Centre for Advanced Design in Engineering Training is a facility which links design, technology and engineering seamlessly to aid researchers, industry and students and innovates solutions for tomorrow. Yes, there is a possibility for it in India but in many ways it would require a mind shift away from the traditional and singular disciplines. What kind of future outlook do you predict for 3D printing in med tech in India? How big is its growth potential as an industry? India has a unique opportunity if it can mobilise its resources to become a leader in the 3D printing for medical applications area. However, for it to do so will require a bold and courageous vision and the commitment of government, industry and academia. There exists an unlimited growth potential for this industry which is waiting to be tapped. BIOVOICENEWS.COM 19