QIMR Berghofer

QIMR Berghofer Translational medical research institute making an impact in , and , and , and .

QIMR Berghofer is a leading translational research institute with an 80 year history in , Australia. Established in 1945 to research tropical and infectious diseases found in northern Australia, our scientists are now making an impact in , and , and , and . QIMR Berghofer is home to a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facility, Q-Gen Cell Therapeutics, and a mosquito research laboratory which is the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Each year we welcome thousands of high school students to the Institute to participate in our education programs. We also host tours for small groups and offer a range of events and community engagement opportunities throughout the year. Join our community on social media to keep in touch and visit our website to connect with the latest health and medical research: www.qimrb.edu.au.

19/11/2025

QIMR Berghofer researchers were instrumental in identifying the genetic region linked to haemochromatosis, a breakthrough that transformed care for patients with this common inherited iron overload condition.

As part of our 80 Years of Impact video series, hear from researchers like Professor Grant Ramm who are continuing that pioneering work today through initiatives like the Australian Haemochromatosis Registry, research into improved diagnosis and treatment of iron disorders, and advances in preventing liver inflammation and scarring.

These efforts are key to protecting this vital organ from irreversible damage.

Haemochromatosis Australia

Science-backed habits to lower frailty risk: 🥦Choose nutritious foods 🚴‍♀️Keep moving with physical activity 🧠Challenge ...
19/11/2025

Science-backed habits to lower frailty risk:

🥦Choose nutritious foods

🚴‍♀️Keep moving with physical activity

🧠Challenge your brain regularly

🧑‍🤝‍🧑Foster social connections

😴Prioritise quality sleep

🚭Steer clear of smoking and limit alcohol

Read more: https://www.qimrb.edu.au/whats-on/news/genetic-researchers-reveal-why-some-people-age-better-than-others-and-find-new-connections-to-alzheimer%27s-disease

Not everyone ages in the same way and cutting-edge genetics research is bringing us closer to understanding why this is the case.

Scientists at QIMR Berghofer have pinpointed over 400 genes connected to different types of age-related decline, with many of these genes playing crucial roles in areas of the brain that control memory, movement and decision making.​

The most promising takeaway? Many symptoms tied to genetic risks—like slower walking, muscle weakness, memory troubles and social withdrawal—are responsive to lifestyle changes. Adjusting daily habits and staying proactive can help combat some of the underlying genetic risks of frailty.​

19/11/2025

🚽 Who knew toilets could save lives? (...well ok, we did)

This World Toilet Day let's lift the lid on parasites!

No one wants to bathe or wash their clothes in ‘poo-water’, yet this is the daily reality for millions of people.

Butt…(yes, we went there), a is one of the most powerful tools to protect people from disease.

By helping us to provide a clean, private place for people to toilet, faeces will be kept away from the river where people bathe and collect drinking water.

Make a positive impact with QIMR Berghofer this World Toilet Day: https://donate.qimrb.edu.au/world-toilet-day

Researchers at QIMR Berghofer are on a mission to end 'snail fever' in Lao PDR and Cambodia by using an intensive ‘One Health’ multi-pronged approach.

You can help communities protect themselves, their neighbours, and future generations from a disease that causes mental and physical stunting in children, anaemia and liver fibrosis simply by helping fund a toilet.



World Toilet Organization United Nations

19/11/2025

🧬 Why do some people age better than others?

New research from QIMR Berghofer has uncovered over 400 genes linked to frailty and age-related decline—many active in key regions of the brain responsible for memory, movement, and decision-making.

Published in Nature Genetics, the study from Associate Professor Michelle Lupton and international collaborators shows that frailty isn’t just physical—it’s neurological.

While overall frailty wasn’t found to cause ’s disease, specific aspects like disability-related frailty were shown to be causal. frailty was also associated with increased risk.

The good news? Many symptoms like muscle weakness, slow walking, memory loss, and social isolation can be improved through lifestyle changes.

🧠 Tips to reduce frailty risk:
✔️ Eat well
✔️ Stay active
✔️ Engage your brain
✔️ Stay socially connected
✔️ Sleep well
✔️ Avoid smoking & excess alcohol

Learn more: https://www.qimrb.edu.au/whats-on/news/genetic-researchers-reveal-why-some-people-age-better-than-others-and-find-new-connections-to-alzheimer%27s-disease

17/11/2025

In the second episode of our 80 Years of Impact docuseries, hear from Professor Elizabeth Powell as she recounts memories of her father, renowned hepatologist and liver disease researcher Professor Lawrie Powell AC.

Professor Lawrie Powell's extraordinary contributions to medical research and liver health have changed thousands of lives and his dedication to science and the community continues to inspire us all.​

WATCH 📺 Iron disorders and liver disease research leaders: https://www.qimrb.edu.au/whats-on/news/iron-disorders-and-liver-disease-research-leaders

Congratulations to Cancer Metabolism lab Group Head Professor Nils Halberg who has been awarded Pankind's 2025 Early Det...
11/11/2025

Congratulations to Cancer Metabolism lab Group Head Professor Nils Halberg who has been awarded Pankind's 2025 Early Detection Grant.

By analysing rare in blood samples with advanced detection , his project aims to identify new biomarkers for early .

If successful, this research could lead to a simple blood test to detect pancreatic cancer early, identify people at higher risk and even inform screening strategies for other obesity- or diabetes-related cancers.

Find out more about Professor Halberg's work: https://www.qimrb.edu.au/researchers-and-labs/cancer-metabolism

Lest we forget.
11/11/2025

Lest we forget.

We’re proud to share that Dr Lachlan Harris, Team Head at QIMR Berghofer, has been awarded the 2025 Metcalf Prize for St...
10/11/2025

We’re proud to share that Dr Lachlan Harris, Team Head at QIMR Berghofer, has been awarded the 2025 Metcalf Prize for Stem Cell Research by the National Stem Cell Foundation of Australia.

This $60,000 prize will support his pioneering work on brain stem cells and their “sleep-like” state, known as quiescence. Understanding how these cells wake up could lead to breakthroughs in cognition, healthy ageing and new treatments for brain cancer.

Dr Harris leads Australia’s first Cancer Neuroscience Laboratory, dedicated to studying quiescent glioma stem cells. His research aims to transform how we fight brain cancer and improve lives worldwide.

Join us in celebrating this incredible achievement!

For the full story visit: https://www.qimrb.edu.au/whats-on/news/qimr-berghofer-scientists-unlock-ancient-cellular-wisdom-of-brain-stem-cells-offering-hope-for-brain-cancer-and-degenerative-disease

QIMR Berghofer researchers, students and staff were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Kalkadoon and Mayi artist ...
10/11/2025

QIMR Berghofer researchers, students and staff were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Kalkadoon and Mayi artist Leah Cummins.

A co-founder of Bunya Designs, Leah created a stunning artwork for QIMR Berghofer’s Reconciliation Action Plan.

We were lucky enough to have Leah speak at our NAIDOC Week event in July this year to explain her piece, A Journey of Healing, Growth and Discovery. Her art told stories of connection, healing and strength and is proudly displayed in our foyer at 300 Herston Road, Herston for all to enjoy.

Leah was intelligent, warm and funny and touched the hearts of so many here at the Institute.

She was passionate about both the creative arts and science, technology, engineering and mathematics ( ) and had just completed a Bachelor of Surveying Technology (majoring in Geographical Information Systems) from the University of Southern Queensland.

Leah will be farewelled this week in Cloncurry and leaves behind her mum Nikki, two sisters and a nephew, as well as extended family.

Nikki has given QIMR Berghofer permission to share Leah’s photo and name in our tributes.

Everyone at QIMR Berghofer expresses our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Leah’s family. We can only imagine your deep sorrow at losing such a light in your life so early.

We are certain Leah’s legacy will continue through her art, her community and all who were lucky enough to know her. ❤️

Did you hear the ‘buzz’ about our Control Laboratory on ABC Radio Brisbane this morning? Hosts Craig Zonca and Loretta...
07/11/2025

Did you hear the ‘buzz’ about our Control Laboratory on ABC Radio Brisbane this morning?

Hosts Craig Zonca and Loretta Ryan spent time recently with Adjunct Professor Leon Hugo and Dr Brian Johnson, as they help us celebrate 80 years of impactful medical research at QIMR Berghofer.

Listen to how feeding time at the insectary went down here!

(Listen from 1 hour 12 mins in)
https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/brisbane-breakfast/breakfast/105968194?utm_content=link&utm_medium=content_shared

ABC Brisbane

07/11/2025

Is it really almost a week since our 80th Anniversary Gala Dinner?

Our researchers, staff and students loved seeing all of you — our donors, supporters, collaborators and friends in one room.

Thank you for making our 80th year as a powerhouse in Queensland medical research so spectacular!

Address

300 Herston Road, Herston
Brisbane, QLD
4006

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

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Our Story

With a history spanning more than 70 years, QIMR Berghofer aims to improve health by developing effective prevention strategies, new diagnostics and better health treatments. QIMR Berghofer was established in 1945 to research tropical and infectious diseases found in northern Australia. Since then we have broadened our focus to cancer, infectious diseases, mental health and chronic disorders. Each year we open our doors to more than 2000 high school students through our extensive school-based education programs. We also host tours for small groups, so if you would like to see our research firsthand, we encourage you to book a tour. QIMR Berghofer is home to a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facility, Q-Gen Cell Therapeutics, a clinical trials facility, Q-Pharm, and a mosquito research laboratory which is the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Our researchers have access to cutting-edge technologies including the ACRF Centre for Comprehensive Biomedical Imaging and the Herston Imaging Research Facility. We have also introduced initiatives to support the commercialisation of our research so it can translated into new medical treatments for the community sooner. QIMR Berghofer has opportunities for Honours, Masters and PhD students. We also welcome visiting scientists from other research institutions. Each year our scientists collaborate with research institutions from across Australia and the world, as well as commercial collaborators. All the latest news, events and research updates are posted on our website or you can get involved by engaging in our conversations here on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn. It is an exciting time to be involved with QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute - the future of health.