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.

It was a pleasure to welcome Madonna Jarrett MP, Federal MP for Brisbane to the Institute today and engage directly on i...
07/04/2026

It was a pleasure to welcome Madonna Jarrett MP, Federal MP for Brisbane to the Institute today and engage directly on issues affecting medical research in .

Professor Grant Ramm, Interim Director and CEO, presented on QIMR Berghofer’s history and capabilities, including our leadership in cell therapy technologies.

Professor Rajiv Khanna, Distinguished Scientist and Coordinator of the Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development, presented his team’s work on cellular immunotherapies for life threatening viral infections in immunocompromised transplant recipients.

Supported by the Australian Government through the Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (AISRF), Professor Khanna will expand his innovative adoptive T cell therapy to India in collaboration with St. John’s Research Institute in Bangalore, helping to address an unmet clinical need for vulnerable patient groups in both countries.

Thank you for visiting - we look forward to welcoming you back to QIMR Berghofer again soon!

New research directed by QIMR Berghofer researcher Baptiste Couvy‑Duchesne, alongside teams at The University of Queensl...
02/04/2026

New research directed by QIMR Berghofer researcher Baptiste Couvy‑Duchesne, alongside teams at The University of Queensland and Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute, is clearing the air on what brain scans can—and can’t—tell us about depression.

These findings point the way toward more comprehensive approaches to studying .

If you would like to help progress mental health research, please consider participating in our ongoing studies of depression and anxiety:
🧠 Living with Anxiety Study - https://www.qimrb.edu.au/studies/living-with-anxiety
🧬 Australian Genetics of Depression Study - https://www.qimrb.edu.au/studies/australian-genetics-of-depression-study

01/04/2026

From a lifelong curiosity about how the human body works to developing cutting‑edge cellular immunotherapies, Dr Paulo Martins’ career is dedicated to translating research into real-world outcomes for people with and 🔬

Paulo studied biochemistry and biotechnology and worked in cell therapies before going on to complete a PhD at The University of Queensland.

His PhD research laid the groundwork for the development of novel antibody-based immunotherapies for treating viral infections following transplantation.

Now a Senior Research Officer in Professor Rajiv Khanna’s Tumour Immunology Lab at QIMR Berghofer, Dr Martins focuses on cellular immunotherapy. The lab aims to harness and re‑engineer the immune system to make it more effective against targeting cancers.

Learn more about the Tumour Immunology Lab at QIMR Berghofer: https://www.qimrb.edu.au/researchers-and-labs/tumour-immunology

Today, the Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes (AAMRI) published a new independent report highlighting...
30/03/2026

Today, the Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes (AAMRI) published a new independent report highlighting the critical role of medical research institutes in Australia.

The findings show the medical research sector delivers significant national value:
✔️$3.90 returned for every $1 invested
✔️$4.07 billion in annual economic benefit
✔️$5.80 returned for every $1 invested in clinical trials.

The report reinforces that medical research institutes like QIMR Berghofer deliver real impact for both patients and the economy. However, the current funding model does not cover the cost of research.

Without coordinated action, Australia risks falling behind.

Read the report:https://aamri.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Nous-Report-Assessing-Australias-Medical-Research-Institute-Sector-FINAL.pdf

⭐ Congratulations to Associate Professor Miguel Rentería on receiving the prestigious Ruth Stephens Gani Medal as part o...
30/03/2026

⭐ Congratulations to Associate Professor Miguel Rentería on receiving the prestigious Ruth Stephens Gani Medal as part of the Australian Academy of Science 2026 Honorific Awards ⭐

Associate Professor Rentería’s work on the genetics and epidemiology of neurological disorders, particularly Parkinson’s disease, continues to drive discoveries that will shape the future of neurology and precision medicine in Australia and beyond.

This recognition highlights his commitment to advancing research and mentoring the next generation of scientists.

Congratulations to all those awarded in the Australian Academy of Science’s 2026 Honorific Awards.

Read more: https://www.qimrb.edu.au/whats-on/news/leading-genetics-researcher-recognised-with-prestigious-australian-academy-of-science-award

Sunscreen is back in the headlines again, with news the Therapeutic Goods Administration ( ) is proposing big changes to...
27/03/2026

Sunscreen is back in the headlines again, with news the Therapeutic Goods Administration ( ) is proposing big changes to how is regulated here in Australia.

The TGA will be looking into how sunscreens are tested for SPF ratings, how labs are testing for , and potential changes to the way sunscreen is labelled.

Professors David Whiteman AM and Rachel Neale will be working with the TGA to ensure the expectations of Australians are met when it comes to sunscreen safety.

Professor Whiteman says:
“We're in favour of the consultation process. It is clear that there is public concern about sunscreens. This concern could undo decades of work seeking to reduce the harms of sun exposure. We understand there are various points of view in these complex debates and we're committed to safety and clarity for consumers.”

Listen to Professor Whiteman AO’s discussion with Craig and Loretta on ABC Brisbane (discussion starts at 1hr 19min): http://tiny.cc/r0x0101

Hear from Professor Neale on ABC News here (at 8 mins): https://iview.abc.net.au/video/NU2605Q085S00

A big thank you to Channel 9’s TODAY for the shout‑out during their weather cross at the Queensland Museum Kurilpa today...
27/03/2026

A big thank you to Channel 9’s TODAY for the shout‑out during their weather cross at the Queensland Museum Kurilpa today.

World Science Festival Brisbane is an incredible showcase of , and we’re proud to contribute world‑leading medical research to the conversation.

There are only a few days left of the festival though, so if you’re heading to this weekend, come say hello to the team at the Whale Mall outside Queensland Museum — we love sharing the science that saves lives.

Our team will be at the with hands‑on activities, demos and plenty of opportunities to chat with our researchers.

(Plus we couldn't resist saying hi to Ranger Stacey and get a pic with her! You can see Ranger Stacey this weekend at too!)

What an incredible weekend we had at World Science Festival Brisbane!A huge thank you to everyone who visited the QIMR B...
25/03/2026

What an incredible weekend we had at World Science Festival Brisbane!

A huge thank you to everyone who visited the QIMR Berghofer stand — your curiosity and enthusiasm make this event so special.

We were thrilled to be part of the and provide a glimpse of what goes on behind the shiny windows of our building on Herston Road. Which did you love the best – the mozzie chat or the cells under the microscope?

Our researchers had a fantastic time at too, answering questions, making science accessible and showing just how fun it is!

Thank you also to everyone who signed up to become a Friend of the Institute! We’re so excited to keep in touch and let you know about our amazing science, opportunities to meet our researchers and more!

This outstanding celebration of science is not over yet so make sure you get involved this week!

QIMR Berghofer was proud to take part in the World Science Festival Brisbane and Study Queensland Innovation Challenge t...
25/03/2026

QIMR Berghofer was proud to take part in the World Science Festival Brisbane and Study Queensland Innovation Challenge this week at the Queensland Museum Kurilpa.

Education Coordinator Dr Liam St Pierre represented the Institute alongside seven industry partners contributing real‑world for more than 90 international students to tackle.

The event was officially opened by the Minister for Science and Innovation, the Honourable Andrew Powell MP, with the judging panel featuring Queensland Chief Scientist Professor Kerrie Wilson — a fantastic show of support for the next generation of scientific thinkers.

We were thrilled to have two student teams tackle our challenge question:
“How might QIMR Berghofer showcase the journey from discovery to real-world health outcomes in ways that engage and inspire a global audience?”

One of these teams was selected to present their solution and went on to be awarded runner-up, proposing a creative strategy centred on a video campaign amplified through an international podcast platform. Their enthusiasm and insight was inspiring.

Dr St Pierre said events like this highlight the strength and diversity of Queensland’s scientific community.

“It was a wonderful opportunity to share QIMR Berghofer’s work, connect with emerging talent, and collaborate with fellow industry partners. The future of science in is looking incredibly bright,” he said.

Queensland Science

: The quest to eliminate strongyloidiasis in northern Australia 🧫Strongyloidiasis is a little-known but potentially dea...
22/03/2026

: The quest to eliminate strongyloidiasis in northern Australia 🧫

Strongyloidiasis is a little-known but potentially deadly parasitic infection that affects many remote Indigenous communities across Australia.

The infection is caused by the parasitic worm called Strongyloides stercoralis, which lives in warm, damp soil contaminated with human faeces. People become infected when tiny larvae in the soil pe*****te the skin, often through bare feet.

Unlike most other parasites, Strongyloides stercoralis can reproduce inside the human body, meaning infections can last for decades and sometimes become life-threatening if untreated.

The most effective way to prevent infection is through proper sewage and waste systems that keep human faeces out of the environment.

QIMR Berghofer researchers, led by Professor Darren Gray, Dr Catherine Gordon and Dr Suzy Ossipow, are advancing the Strongyloidiasis Elimination Australia Research Program to help address this long-overlooked health challenge.

Working in partnership with communities in East Arnhem Land and Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation, the team are directly engaging with communities to learn how to best support residents.

An investigator workshop held in Darwin brought together Indigenous leaders and study investigators to develop research protocols, ensuring that the program reflects community priorities and cultural knowledge.

In the laboratory, QIMR Berghofer researchers are developing new diagnostic tools and refining methods for stool and wastewater testing, helping lay the groundwork for community-led disease elimination.

By combining scientific innovation with strong community partnerships, this program aims to reduce infections and support long-term health outcomes for Indigenous communities across northern Australia.

💧 Donate and help accelerate research that is keeping communities healthy: https://donate.qimrb.edu.au/



(📸: Stained slide of the gut of a person infected with Strongyloides stercoralis)

Centre for Tropical Health and Emerging Diseases

: Understanding mosquitoes and the rise of mozzie-borne diseases 🦟After weeks of heavy rain and flooding, you might not...
22/03/2026

: Understanding mosquitoes and the rise of mozzie-borne diseases 🦟

After weeks of heavy rain and flooding, you might notice more mozzies buzzing around.

More mozzies = an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases like Ross River virus, dengue and Japanese encephalitis.

Mozzies thrive in warm, humid conditions and only need tiny pockets of still water to breed. When rainwater collects in gutters, containers, garden pots or waterholding plants, it creates ideal habitats where mosquito numbers can multiply rapidly. And as the weather heats up, their breeding cycle speeds up too.

One of the simplest and most effective protective steps begins at home: emptying or refreshing any standing water at least once a week.

QIMR Berghofer researchers are tackling mosquito-borne disease across multiple fronts, working to:
🦟 better understand how mosquito-borne diseases spread
🦟 develop targeted vaccines for viruses like Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV)
🦟 better prevent and treat malaria in communities across the Asia Pacific
🦟 use cutting edge genomics tools to identify and even predict areas at risk of mosquito-borne viruses
🦟 support communities to control mozzie populations and reduce their risk.

💧 Donate and help accelerate research that is keeping communities healthy: https://donate.qimrb.edu.au



Centre for Tropical Health and Emerging Diseases

: Tackling schistosomiasis in Cambodia and Laos 👓Many communities around the world rely on yearly treatment programs to...
22/03/2026

: Tackling schistosomiasis in Cambodia and Laos 👓

Many communities around the world rely on yearly treatment programs to reduce infections from parasites like schistosomiasis, which are closely linked to water access and sanitation. The parasite’s eggs are released in faeces and hatch when they reach water, which is why toilet use and adequate sanitation is essential to stop contamination at the source.

These yearly treatments are effective, but they do not prevent people from becoming reinfected, especially in places where river water is essential for daily life.

In Cambodia and Laos, schistosomiasis remains a major health challenge. People can be exposed when they swim, wash, cook or fish in these waters without realising it. For many villages, the river is central to the daily activities of life.

QIMR Berghofer researchers, led by Dr Catherine Gordon, are developing a new health education package featuring the Magic Glasses, a short, animated video that teaches school children what schistosomiasis is and how they can protect themselves. Dr Gordon recently travelled to Cambodia to collaborate with local partners on the project.

The Magic Glasses video is shaped by conversations with children, parents, teachers and health workers, who help identify what information is most needed and what kinds of stories and characters will feel relatable and engaging.

Dr Gordon has worked closely with a local animator to make sure the video includes scenery, clothing and daily activities that reflect real life in these countries.

By giving children the knowledge to keep themselves and their families healthy, the Magic Glasses program will supports long term efforts to reduce infection and protect communities that rely on their rivers every day.

💧 Donate and help accelerate research that is keeping communities healthy: https://donate.qimrb.edu.au/



(📸 Magic Glasses concept art, and photos from Dr Gordon's visit to Cambodia)

Centre for Tropical Health and Emerging Diseases

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300 Herston Road, Herston
Brisbane, QLD
4006

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

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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.