FY25 Dust Diseases Board research grants and awards announced
Dust Diseases Board (DDB) is proud to announce the recipients of the research funding for FY25, supporting innovative projects that aim to prevent, treat, and reduce the impact of occupational dust diseases in Australia.
This year, seven projects have been awarded funding across two streams: the Research Stream Grants Program and the Researcher Development Stream Awards Program. Each initiative reflects a strong commitment to advancing knowledge, improving clinical practice, and delivering better outcomes for workers and their families.
Research stream grants program
Five projects have been funded to:
- Develop precision nanomedicines targeting immune cells to prevent early-stage silicosis progression.
- Investigate lung stem cell-derived vesicles as a new treatment strategy for silicosis, pneumoconiosis, and asbestosis.
- Harness AI and large-scale genomic data to personalise treatment pathways for mesothelioma.
- Assess the toxicity of low- and no-silica engineered stone to support safe alternatives in the workplace.
- Improve dust exposure assessment using enhanced electron microscopy to inform future control measures.
Researcher development stream awards program
Two projects have been awarded to support the next generation of dust disease researchers:
- A PhD project optimising ultra-low dose CT for lung health monitoring and cancer screening in dust- and asbestos-exposed workers.
- A Post-Doctoral Fellowship developing patient-derived organoid models to optimise personalised treatment strategies for mesothelioma.
Driving research impact
These initiatives align with the DDB Strategic Priorities 2025–2029, which focus on research that informs prevention, improves care, and enhances outcomes for workers affected by dust diseases.
Full project overviews are available here:
