Research with impact

For 175 years, we've been shaping the world through groundbreaking research that drives real change.

Research with impact

For 175 years, we've been shaping the world through groundbreaking research that drives real change.

A legacy of impact

Since 1850, our researchers have tackled society’s biggest challenges, leaving a lasting impact on health, technology, and policy.

Developing the bionic ear

From our research into the auditory nerve to helping severely and profoundly deaf people understand speech, Graeme Clark’s bionic ear continues to change lives via Cochlear.

Pioneering asthma treatment

Our pioneering asthma research during the 1980s and 1990s improved understanding and management of respiratory conditions, leading to better treatments for millions worldwide.

Breakthroughs in wound treatment

From studies of fibres in skin to breakthroughs for wound treatment worldwide, Tony Weiss’ synthetic skin provides new ways to treat injuries.

Taking on melanoma

Melanoma used to be a death sentence. From first proving its link to sunlight, to pioneering new treatments, our research has changed attitudes and has increased advanced melanoma survival rates from less than 5% to over 50%.

Tackling sleep apnoea

From early prototypes in our labs to giving restful sleep to over a million people, Colin Sullivan’s airway pressure inventions have revolutionised treatment for sleep apnoea worldwide and spawned ResMed.

Protecting human rights

Alice Erh-Soon Tay sought to protect the law from the commercial pressures and the encroachment of modern society, seeking ‘quick and efficient’ administrative resolutions, using her comparative analysis of legal systems.

Breakthroughs shaping the future

Our research continues to shape Australia and the world, turning knowledge into solutions that improve lives. Explore our full research impact stories and case studies to see how we are driving change through innovation, collaboration, and discovery.