Enabling precision conservation of threatened species through national-scale genomics infrastructure
There is a global biodiversity crisis with Australia having the highest mammal extinction rate in the world. Many threatened species now persist only in small, fragmented wild populations or captivity, where loss of genetic diversity further increases extinction risk. Despite advances in conservation genetics, uptake has historically been limited by fragmented datasets, inconsistent methodologies, and […]
Genomics for biosecurity: stronger screening for plant pathogens
Australia’s biosecurity relies on the rapid and accurate detection of pathogens at the border. The Australian Government’s Post Entry Quarantine facility faced increasing volumes of high-risk imported plants requiring screening. Traditional viral screening approaches were labour intensive and highly specialised, and fast becoming unsustainable. Image credit: Robin Eichner (DAWE) Australian BioCommons, enabled through Bioplatforms Australia, […]
Bioplatforms Australia drives cancer cures across the nation
Australia is a global leader in cancer genomics research and translation, driving improved survival rates in children and adults. Bioplatforms Australia provides national genomics and bioinformatics infrastructure supporting collaborative programs that convert genomic data into actionable clinical insights across melanoma, paediatric and adult cancers, including the following national initiatives: The Australian Melanoma Genome Project, co-led […]
Australia welcomes its first EMBL ARISE Fellow at Monash University
Australia’s capabilities in research infrastructure (RI) have received a major boost, with Monash University set to host EMBL Fellows as part of the Career Accelerator for Research Infrastructure Scientists (ARISE) – a flagship European initiative designed to train the next generation of RI leaders. ARISE Fellow Dr Richard Jacoby from the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) will […]
A nasal spray to protect against COVID-19 and future respiratory viruses
Researchers at the Kirby Institute at UNSW Sydney are developing a new antiviral approach that could help protect against COVID-19 and potentially other respiratory viruses. The work, led by A/Prof Chantelle Ahlenstiel, explores the use of short interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutics delivered through an intranasal spray. Unlike vaccines that train the immune system to recognise […]
Bioplatforms-supported startups recognised in NSW Emerging Technology Commercialisation Fund
Three startups supported by Bioplatforms Australia have been announced as recipients of the NSW Government’s Emerging Technology Commercialisation Fund, recognising the strength of Australia’s deep-tech pipeline and the role of national research infrastructure in translating discovery into real-world impact. The successful companies are Number 8 Bio, Platypus Bio and HydGene Renewables. Each is developing technologies […]
Australian Access Federation (AAF)
The Australian Access Federation (AAF) is Australia’s leading provider of identity and access management services to the education and research sector. We make it easy for people to securely access education and research services nationally and internationally, by providing single sign-on. It allows individuals from different organisations to collaborate and access online resources within a trusted environment.
Australian Centre for Neutron Scattering (ANSTO – Nuclear Science Facilities)
ANSTO’s Australian Centre for Neutron Scattering (ACNS) is one of two landmark research infrastructure facilities supported by NCRIS through the funded Nuclear Science Facilities (NSF) program. ACNS uses neutrons from Australia’s multi-purpose research reactor, OPAL, to solve complex research questions and industrial problems for Australian and International users. Neutron scattering techniques allow the structure and dynamics of materials to be determined, permitting scientists and industry to understand why materials have the properties they do, and helping tailor new materials, devices and systems.
Australian technologies on the path to real-world use
The Australian National Fabrication Facility (ANFF) works with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as they develop new technologies and devices and move them beyond the lab. For many SMEs, this is the stage where ideas become physical, functional and repeatable. Access to the right tools, facilities and hands-on expertise makes the difference between something that […]
Australian National Fabrication Facility (ANFF)
ANFF owns and provides access to micro and nanofabrication capabilities for Australia’s researchers and industry. We can assist in both the development of new products and improvements to current production methods. Each Node provides expertise in a specific area, including advanced materials, nanoelectronics & photonics and nano-bio applications. The ANFF commitment to providing a world-class, open-access user facility is underpinned by the sharing of best practice in service provision across the network.
Australian Research Data Commons (ARDC)
The Australian Research Data Commons (ARDC) provides Australian researchers with competitive advantage through data. It accelerates research and innovation by driving excellence in the creation, analysis and retention of high-quality data assets. The ARDC is enabled by the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS). NCRIS is a national network of world-class research infrastructure projects that support high-quality research that will drive greater innovation in the Australian research sector and the economy more broadly.
Bioplatforms Australia (Bioplatforms)
We provide access to ‘omics technologies in support of all life science researchers working across human health, agriculture, biodiversity and industry. Bioplatforms is enabled by the Australian Government’s National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS).
Centre for Accelerator Science (ANSTO – Nuclear Science Facilities)
ANSTO’s Centre for Accelerator Science (CAS) is one of two landmark research infrastructure facilities supported by NCRIS through the funded Nuclear Science Facilities (NSF) program. CAS provides ultra-sensitive sample characterisation, dating, materials modification and irradiation to research and industry users from Australia and the world to solve complex questions and problems.
EMBL Australia
EMBL Australia is a life science network that supports ambitious research projects and provides access to infrastructure and training to early-career Australian scientists. Through Australia’s associate membership of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Australian researchers can access EMBL’s broad range of world-class infrastructures and international expertise.
Heavy Ion Accelerators (HIA)
Our $150M world-class accelerator facilities for high-energy ion beam research represents decades of strategic investment by the Australian National University, the University of Melbourne, our industry partners and the Australian Government. With R&D capabilities unparalleled in Australia and matched by few globally, we support research activities in sectors of national priority, including quantum computing, space and astronomy, advanced materials, environment and climate, cancer therapies, minerals exploration, and fundamental nuclear science.
The unseen engine
How Australia’s investment in research and infrastructure is forging global quantum leadership Over the past 20 years, Australia has quietly secured a position at the forefront of the quantum revolution. Not only are we building some of the world’s first commercial quantum computers but quantum science is being employed in a new generation of sensors, […]
Microscopy Australia (MicroAu)
Microscopy Australia provides researchers and industry with open access to the nation’s largest range of high-end microscopes, microanalysis tools, and specialists. It consists of university-based microscopy centres around the country. Our instruments have dedicated experts to deliver high quality training and support to ensure you get the best research outcomes.
National Deuteration Facility (NDF)
ANSTO’s National Deuteration Facility (NDF) is an NCRIS funded program which created and supports Australia’s only molecular deuteration facility. NDF provides access to landmark infrastructure and expertise for chemical and biological deuteration capabilities, facilitating world-leading research for Australian users to address complex challenges in industrial, medical and environmental applications.
National Imaging Facility (NIF)
National Imaging Facility (NIF) is Australia’s advanced imaging network. We provide open access to world-class imaging equipment, expertise, tools, data and analysis. We address Australia’s strategic science and research priorities, and this benefits Australian industry and helps keep Australians healthy.
Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre (Pawsey)
Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre is home of Setonix, Australia’s fastest and most energy-efficient supercomputer, delivering the nation’s most advanced AI research infrastructure through massive GPU power.
Our integrated platform combines cutting-edge GPU acceleration with AI frameworks, real-time analytics, and advanced remote visualisation services and expertise. This gives researchers nationwide access to the scale, speed and expertise needed to accelerate discovery and innovation across every field, from climate modelling and drug discovery to quantum research and astronomy.
Phenomics Australia (PA)
Phenomics Australia provides a national capability to explore the human genome and the genetic basis of health and disease. Our openly accessible service delivery centres span twenty locations across Australia. Through these, we offer specialised infrastructure, research services and technical expertise dedicated to advancing our fundamental understanding of health and disease and enabling next-generation innovations in healthcare and therapeutic development to benefit all Australians.
Data Connect Australia
The Population Health Research Network (PHRN) has been at the forefront of integrating health and human services data across Australia. With a robust network of data linkage units, PHRN empowers researchers to unlock insights into disease, shaping innovative treatments and enhancing health services nationwide. Underpinned by a commitment to privacy and ethical standards, PHRN exemplifies collaborative research, bolstered by substantial support from government and academic sectors.
Bioplatforms Initiative recognised as an official project supporting Australia’s Animal Plan
We are pleased to share that the Bioplatforms Animal Disease Genomics Initiative is now listed as an official project supporting the ambitions of the DAFF Animalplan 2022–2027, Australia’s first national action plan for production animal health. Led by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), Animalplan 2022–2027 provides a coordinated national framework to strengthen […]
From discovery to spin-out: advancing new therapies for polycystic kidney disease
Polycystic kidney disease is a common inherited condition that can lead to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplantation, with limited treatment options available. Researchers at Monash University identified a key cell signalling pathway driving cyst growth, forming the foundation for xCystence Bio, a biotech spin-out developing new therapies to slow or halt disease progression. NCRIS-enabled […]
Therapeutic Innovation Australia (TIA)
Therapeutic Innovation Australia (TIA) is the lead agent for the NCRIS “Therapeutic Innovation Australia” project. TIA a national consortium of translational research infrastructure that provides researchers and SMEs the expertise and capabilities required to move a potential therapeutic product along the development pathway.
AARNet
AARNet is Australia’s national research and education network, a not-for-profit organisation equally owned by 38 Australian universities and CSIRO. AARNet provides essential high-speed internet and advanced network services tailored to meet the specialised needs of researchers in Australia.
EMBL Australia PhD Course celebrates 10 years of training Australia’s future research leaders
More than 60 PhD students from across the country came together in Adelaide for the 10th EMBL Australia PhD Course – a unique, two-week residential program designed to equip emerging researchers with the skills and confidence needed for modern scientific careers. Co-hosted with the South Australian Immunogenomics Cancer Institute (SAiGENCI), this year’s course focused on future-ready […]
How NCRIS infrastructure helped UQ’s vaccine platform: a billion-dollar success
A landmark deal has placed Australian vaccine innovation on the world stage, with leading healthcare company Sanofi completing the acquisition of Vicebio. Vicebio was formed in 2019 to advance The University of Queensland (UQ)’s Molecular Clamp platform, a novel vaccine technology designed to stabilise viral proteins in their native shape. This approach helps the immune […]
Barcodes uncover early blueprints of our cellular origins
A landmark study by WEHI scientists, including the LoxCode mouse, a sophisticated preclinical model developed by MAGEC, a Phenomics Australia node specialising in in vivo genome engineering and disease modelling, has shed new light on one of the most fundamental mysteries of biology: how cells divide and grow into the complex structures that make up […]
Strengthening international research relations and showcasing Australian capability
Driving global collaboration through the Prato 2025 Health Research Infrastructure Symposium The 2025 Australian & European Health Research Infrastructure Symposium, held from 16-18 September at the Monash University Prato Centre in Italy, united leaders from major Australian and European research infrastructures to strengthen international partnerships and tackle shared challenges in health and life sciences. The three-day […]
Lab-grown ‘tiny hearts’: development of an epicardial lineage tracing human pluripotent stem cell line to identify new cardiac therapeutics
Lab-grown ‘tiny hearts’ – developed with the support of the Phenomics Australia iPSC Derivation & Gene Editing Facility Node at Murdoch Children Research Institute (MCRI) and the Pipeline Accelerator scheme – have accelerated the way treatments are identified and tested for heart related disease. Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death in Australia, responsible for one in four of […]
Advancing early melanoma detection: Phenomics Australia & ACEMID collaboration
Phenomics Australia’s Histopathology & Slide Scanning Node is working with the Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging & Diagnosis (ACEMID) Pathology team to drive new advances in the early detection and diagnosis of melanoma. Every year, more than 18,000 Australians are diagnosed with melanoma. According to ACEMID Project Leader Professor H. Peter Soyer (The University of Queensland), identifying […]
Cost-effective imaging technology to revolutionise spatial transcriptomics
EMBL Australia group leader Dr William Roman & his team have launched a new imaging-based spatial transcriptomics platform that dramatically reduces experimental costs from more than $35,000 to approximately $30 per experiment, making spatial biology more accessible to researchers across Australia. While modern sequencing technology has made it relatively easy to tell which genes are […]
NCRIS Turbo-Charges New mRNA Drugs
Therapeutics that use mRNA are a growing area of development and work by introducing the ‘’message” to make a therapeutic protein into the patient’s body, instead of the protein itself. This approach can revolutionise combatting many kinds of cancers, and for treating genetic and infectious diseases. Conventional strategies deliver mRNA drugs to tissues inside lipid […]
MAB: advancing bioimaging through collaboration and innovation
EMBL Australia Group Leader Dr Senthil Arumugam, along with Dr Toby Bell and Dr Kate McArthur, recently launched the Monash BDI Advanced Bioimaging (MAB) platform – a researcher-led, global collaboration hub designed to bring innovative microscopy technologies directly to the researchers who need them. From light-sheet imaging to custom-built microscopes and large-scale data visualisation, MAB integrates experimental […]
Supercomputing powers the fight to accelerate phage therapies against antibiotic-resistant infections
NCI, Pawsey, and ARDC help researchers rapidly identify therapeutic phages from metagenomic data through the powerful new Sphae toolkit. Flowchart of Sphae’s modular process for predicting suitable phages for antimicrobial therapy. Antibiotic resistance is one of the most pressing global health threats of our time, prompting scientists to urgently explore alternative ways to combat deadly […]
Research Impact: Geospatial Factors Applied to Road Accidents
Road accidents are a major source of trauma worldwide. Over 1.3 million people are killed in road accidents annually, and collisions are a leading cause of death and injury across all age groups. Aside from the human cost of road accidents, there is a significant financial toll. The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention […]
TRI boosts medical research efficiency with FileSender
The Translational Research Institute’s integration of FileSender enables fast and secure data sharing, streamlining collaboration for vital medical research. The Translational Research Institute (TRI) is at the forefront of medical research, supporting diverse research projects that produce crucial data to further our understanding of complex diseases. The institute plays a key role in studies spanning cancer biology, […]
Powerful software reveals brain superhighway ‘tracts’ for surgery and research
Our brains work a bit like highly advanced supercomputers, with bundles of white matter, known as ‘tracts,’ acting as superhighways that facilitate information flow and enable various brain functions. Injuries and disturbances in these tracts are linked to numerous neurological and psychiatric disorders. However, imaging these white matter tracts is challenging. These tracts are made […]
First in-human images of new hope treatment for poor-prognosis prostate cancer
In a world first, supported by National Imaging Facility, Australian researchers have imaged and measured the uptake of a promising new prostate cancer therapy drug developed by Australian company AdvanCell, which was recently administered to its first patient in a clinical trial. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer for men. Around 50% of […]
New brain imaging set to improve and speed epilepsy diagnosis, treatment
Novel imaging methods combined with cognitive, genetic and medical data will use AI to increase the speed and accuracy of diagnoses and treatment for epilepsy patients, according to researchers working collaboratively with NIF. Advanced MRI imaging methods are helping Australian epilepsy researchers move closer to faster, more accurate, individualised diagnoses and treatment options for patients. […]
State support injects big cash for upgrades and new national research infrastructure
National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS)-supported programs have received nearly $30 million in co-investment from the New South Wales and Queensland Governments through the NCRIS Support Program and Research Infrastructure Co-Investment Fund (RICF), respectively. Co-funding arrangements such as the NCRIS Support Program and RICF are another way that NCRIS ensures that spending on research infrastructure […]
Future-proofing computational proteomics
EMBL Australia and Bioplatforms Australia joined forces to host a pivotal proteomics workshop titled ‘Future-proofing Computational Proteomics’ on 24 April, featuring leading guest speakers, Dr Rolf Apweiler, Prof Marc Wilkins and Dr Richard Lipscombe. The Australian proteomics community discussed advancements in proteomics research and the pivotal role of computational approaches in shaping the future of […]
Australian health research infrastructure underpins world-first brain cancer collaboration
The NCRIS Health Group will support Australian brain cancer research through Brain Cancer Australia’s project to develop an integrated network of research platforms to improve patient outcomes, test new treatments and work toward a cure, with the announcement of a Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) grant worth just under $6M. The project brings together clinicians, […]
Brain research supercharged by new ‘control panel’ accessible worldwide
The flood of data from brain research worldwide has now been channelled into an easy-to-use, open-access processing tool built to supercharge our understanding of the human brain. Neurodesk – a platform for processing, analysing and sharing massive datasets – has solved critical issues in the search for answers about brain disorders and diseases such as epilepsy, […]
Protein discovery for better bowel cancer treatments
Bowel cancer claims more than 100 lives in Australia every week. Thankfully, researchers at the Australian National University (ANU) have discovered that an immune protein can slow the division of bowel cancer cells. This is a promising target for both early detection tests and bowel cancer treatments. DR ABHIMANU PANDEY SAYS AN IMMUNE SYSTEM PROTEIN […]
Strengthening our European connections to EMBL and beyond
On a recent visit to EMBL Heidelberg, Ian Smith, Chair of the EMBL Australia Council, spoke about the synergies between EMBL and EMBL Australia, opportunities for collaboration and ideas for exciting future programs. Ian Smith, Chair of the EMBL Australia Council, chatted to EMBL about the synergies between the organisations, opportunities for collaboration, and ideas […]
Clinical Trial Data Unlocked for Research with New National Platform
Health Data Australia is unlocking clinical trial data for research at a national scale. For the first time in Australia, researchers can find clinical trial data from multiple research institutions and request access to it via a new platform, Health Data Australia. Launching tomorrow at SAHMRI in Adelaide, Health Data Australia allows clinical trialists and data […]
Vaccine patch delivers protection from dengue in mice
Dengue is the most significant mosquito-borne viral disease in the world. With an estimated 390 million cases annually, it results in approximately US$6.9 billion in economic losses. Now Dr David Muller and the vaccine team at the University of Queensland (UQ) have developed a promising dengue vaccine candidate that provides strong immunity in mice when […]
Renewable, versatile spinifex and the future of nanofibres
From nanotechnology to Indigenous empowerment Spinifex, a hardy Australian grass, spread widely across inland Australia, presents a new high-tech opportunity for the future of construction, medical technology, and day-to-day life. In partnership with the Indjalandji-Dhidhanu People of North-West Queensland, through Bulugudu Ltd, researchers at the University of Queensland have been developing a high-tech product from […]
Biobanks: the Australian Phenome Bank
The Australian Phenome Bank: a national biobank and database aiding the discovery of genetic disease causes and advancing Personalised Medicine. Phenomics Australia’s Biobanking service provides a database and cryobank of mouse sperm and embryos essential for discovering and distributing disease models in Australia. The challenge: Ensuring the ongoing availability of mouse strains preserving the investment made in […]
CRISPR/Cas as diagnostics tools
Phenomics Australia NCRIS expertise is used in providing knowledge to look into the commercial and translational potential of CRISPR technology. Phenomics Australia’s long-term support of the In vivo Genome Engineering and Disease Modelling nodes over the years has allowed researchers at the Melbourne Advanced Genome Editing Center (MAGEC) to have a solid understanding of CRISPR/Cas […]
When food kills
Infrastructure and expertise supported by Phenomics Australia and Therapeutic Innovation Australia (TIA)are used in fighting food poisoning toxins. Prof Si Ming Man (right) and Dr Anukriti Mathur (left). Image Lannon Harley/ANU The challenge: Food poisoning is estimated to affect more than 4 million Australians every year – costing the economy $1.25 billion, and in some […]
A One Health approach to Japanese encephalitis
Scientists at CSIRO’s Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP) provided diagnostic testing and outbreak response support when a widespread outbreak of Japanese encephalitis occurred in piggeries in southern Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. What is Japanese encephalitis? Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus is a potentially fatal disease that infects about 100,000 people worldwide […]
How data linkage can improve the health of older people
Older people, despite bearing the burden of chronic disease and being more likely to take prescription drugs older people are under-represented in clinical trials. Studying older people When pharmaceutical companies do clinical trials, people over the age of 70 are often excluded. It’s partly ageism, says Professor Leon Flicker, a geriatric medicine specialist at The University of Western Australia. […]
WearOptimo create real-time, Microwearable health sensors
WearOptimo have used Microscopy Australia’s facilities to develop a world-first, wearable, real-time health sensor, which is now in clinical trials. WearOptimo aims to provide affordable, wearable technology to revolutionise monitoring of biomarkers, which act as an early warning sign of disease. Initially, their sticker like device will provide real time monitoring of hydration and of heart […]
How Australia’s national research infrastructure is responding to COVID-19
Australia’s National Research Infrastructure (NRI) swiftly redeployed to support national and international COVID-19 research. Some examples are listed below. Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP), Bioplatforms Australia (BPA), Microscopy Australia and Therapautic Innovation Australia (TIA) were involved in the University of Queensland vaccine program. Australian Plant Phenomics Facility (APPF) is supporting research into plant-based vaccines. Astronomy Australia […]
The risk of ‘Mr Fluffy’ insulation
When Australian National University epidemiologist Associate Professor Rosemary Korda first started holding public forums for Canberra residents affected by ‘Mr Fluffy’ insulation, people were very distressed. “There was quite a bit of anger in the room, and pretty upset people,” she remembers. “There were definitely people who were very concerned about future health effects of the […]
Uncovering a rare autoinflammatory disease
Phenomics Australia has enabled an international research consortium to identify the genetic cause of a previously undiagnosed autoinflammatory disease (CRIA Syndrome). The challenge: effective CRIA Syndrome treatment is limited. Humans suffering from this rare condition present a series of painful symptoms of unknown cause, including periodic fevers and swollen lymph nodes, recurring from early childhood […]
From ancient grass to modern materials
A unique partnership between Dugalunji Aboriginal Corporation and a University of Queensland research team has lead to the development of valuable and sustainable nanofibres leading to the creation of regional, Indigenous jobs. Challenge Nanofibres can strengthen many materials for a wide range of applications from thinner more flexible electronics and plastics, to next generation building […]
Elastagen – Skinnovation in treatment for burns victims
Elastagen Pty Ltd is a clinical stage medical device company that is pioneering Elastatherapy™ using the human protein elastin to naturally repair and augment the skin. The company has arisen out of patented research conducted by Prof. Tony Weiss’s group at the University of Sydney and their first clinical trials have demonstrated the biocompatability and […]
Better cholesterol imaging
An international team of researchers has developed a new way to localise cholesterol is in cells and tissues. This provides insights into how cholesterol moves in and out of cells and could eventually lead to new therapies for cardiovascular disease. Deuterated cholesterol enabled by the National Deuteration Facility and NanoSIMS (nano-Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy) at […]
Linked Data and the Reduction in Cervical Cancer in Australia
Data linkage has had a significant role in the reduction in cervical cancer in Australia. Preventing cervical cancer The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine is a powerful tool for the prevention of cervical cancer. It was developed by industry, based on critical research done at the University of Queensland. Australia was the first country in the world to introduce […]
