It is the McCusker Alzheimer's Research Foundation's strategy to provide the human and physical infrastructure for proof-of-idea research in partnership with Western Australian universities.
Investment through such symbiotic relationships leverages additional funding for research and provides additional resources such as laboratory facilities that it would find difficult to access on its own.
Partnerships developed to date include those with Hollywood Private Hospital, Edith Cowan University, the Cooperative Research Centre for Mental Health, and the Centre for Excellence in Alzheimer's Disease Research and Care.
Human infrastructure refers to the intellectual capital represented by a group of highly-qualified and experienced scientists who comprise the core of the McCusker Research Team and their technical and administrative support staff.
Their long-term involvement in Alzheimer's disease research, collective experience and expertise makes them a highly productive and dedicated team which is essential for the continuity of the research effort.
Adequate, reliable funding is essential to provide this valuable team (which would be almost impossible to replace) with security and appropriate remuneration to ensure they are retained.
Physical infrastructure incorporates accommodation, equipment, consumables, and maintenance. Research grants typically do not cover these or the administrative costs.
McCUSKER