The new treatment could help those who have suffered hearing loss as a result of ageing, exposure to noise or as a side effect of common treatments for infection and cancer.

The awards recognise exceptional research with the potential to translate into new products and services. They encompass Curtin's faculties of science and engineering, health sciences, business and law, humanities, and learning and teaching.

Deputy vice-chancellor Chris Moran said the winning project aimed to help people find an alternative treatment for hearing loss, which is currently managed through hearing aids, cochlear implants or surgery.

"Hearing loss is a large and growing problem which can have a profound impact on quality of life and this team has potentially found a solution which could support people living with this condition," Professor Moran said.

The team worked with a leading surgeon to develop the gel. Its members include Dr Hani Al-Salami, Dr Armin Mooranian and Dr Daniel Brown from the School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences and the Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, along with Clinical Associate Professor Jafri Kuthubutheen,

Professor Moran said the gel innovation was just one of many projects recognised this year.

"Some of the other winning projects include an edible spray coating for meat packaging which has economic benefits for the meat industry, and a VR-immersive experience that allows viewers to access the lived experiences of Stolen Generation survivors during their time at church missions."

For the full list of winners, click here.