Illuminate PitchFest

The Illuminate PitchFest will shine a light on the next generation of world-class research, happening right here at Telethon Kids Institute.

This inaugural event offers a platform for emerging researchers to develop and refine their research ideas with resources and mentorship, with ten trailblazing researchers – selected from the Institute’s internal academic panel – to pitch their research projects in the hopes of securing an Illuminate Award.

On the night, guests will be invited to vote for their favourite pitch as part of the People’s Choice Illuminate Award.

Telethon Kids Institute Chair, the Hon Julie Bishop, can attest to the value of programs like these, having personally mentored and supported the work of an early- to mid- career researcher at Telethon Kids. We are excited to have Julie share her experience on the evening, providing insight into the impact her gift and support has had.

These awards are philanthropically supported by people with a shared vision of happy, healthy kids. Following the pitches, you will have the opportunity to meet the researchers and enjoy some refreshments.

Don’t miss out – secure your ticket now! We can’t wait to see you there. If you would like to support an Illuminate Award or find out more about Illuminate PitchFest please email giving@thekids.org.au

What is Illuminate?

At Telethon Kids our greatest asset is our people. We are strongly invested in the future of child medical research welcoming, nurturing, and encouraging the best and most innovative Australian and international researchers. However, our best and brightest researchers face an increasingly competitive environment in securing research funding.

This means substantial delays in research and even career insecurity, particularly for early and mid-career researchers.

Read more here

This is an in-person event.