FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is QIMR?

QIMR is one of Australia’s largest and most successful medical research institutes. Our researchers are investigating the genetic and environmental causes of more than 40 diseases as well as developing new diagnostics, better treatments and prevention strategies. The Institute’s diverse research program extends from tropical diseases to cancers to Indigenous health, mental health, and infectious diseases.

Where is QIMR and how do I contact you?

QIMR is located next to the Royal Children's Hospital on Herston Road, in Herston, Brisbane. For more information on How to find us, an interactive map, or our operating hours, please visit our Contact Us page.

Which diseases do you research?

For more information on the diseases and conditions we research, please visit Our Research pages.

How can I make a donation to QIMR?

Donations can be made online using the ‘Donate now’ button at the top-right of our website. For more information, visit our donation page or freecall 1800 993 000.

I would like to help fundraise for QIMR. Where can I get more information?

Please visit our Ways to help us page or freecall 1800 993 000.

Where can I find information on available jobs?

Available positions can be found at our Positions vacant page. For any further questions, contact:

Melanie Anderson
Human Resources Officer
T +61 7 3362 0370
E vacancies@qimr.edu.au

As a journalist, how can I find out about the latest media releases from QIMR?

Please visit our Media releases section or contact our media relations staff:

T +61 7 3362 0291
M +61 458 650 200
E media@qimr.edu.au

How can I arrange a tour or guest speaker from QIMR?

QIMR regularly coordinates tours and guest speakers for community groups and members of the public. For more information, please visit Tour and guest speakers or freecall 1800 993 000 to make a booking.

How can I join the Rio Tinto Ride to Conquer Cancer?

To find out more about the annual Rio Tinto Ride to Conquer Cancer and to register for the Ride, visit www.conquercancer.org.au.

Where can I find information on studying at QIMR or school visits?

Please visit our Education pages or contact:

Simone Cross
Education Coordinator
T +61 7 3362 0307
E education@qimr.edu.au

Can I do work experience at QIMR?

Unfortunately, we can only accept Australian high school students who have a work agreement form from their school. For more information, please visit our High school laboratory experience page.

How can I join the QSkin skin cancer study?

Please visit the QSkin website: www.qskin.qimr.edu.au

Can you advise me on how to treat my medical condition?

While QIMR undertakes medical research in an effort to improve future health practices, our scientists cannot provide medical treatment or advice. If you are experiencing symptoms or medical problems, please consult your GP or the appropriate department of a major hospital in your area. If you are unsatisfied with the response you have received from one of these sources, you should consider seeking a second opinion from another registered healthcare provider.

How do I donate my body to QIMR for medical research?

QIMR does not have a body donor program. However, The University of Queensland’s School of Biomedical Sciences welcomes expressions of interest from people living in the Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Toowoomba regions who wish to register as a body donor.

T +61 7 3365 2703
E anatsci@uq.edu.au

How can I become involved in experimental treatments or clinical trials?

Visit the Participate in our research page to find out more information about the latest trials that are taking place.

Otherwise, you can search the Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trial Register (ANZCTR). This is a directory of all trials being conducted in Australia and New Zealand.

For more information about the clinical trial register, contact:

T +61 2 9562 5333
E info@actr.org.au

I read an article on a pill to straighten hair. When will it be available?

Unfortunately, there is no magic pill that will curl or straighten your hair. The article was based on the discovery of a gene that produces a protein that influences whether hair will be curly or not (see media release). It is one of many genes and proteins that affect hair curliness, and there are currently no plans to develop this discovery into a product.

I have heard about a gel to treat skin cancer. Where can I buy it?

LEO Pharma is developing of a topical treatment for skin cancer (PEP005), from a compound found in the common petty spurge plant. The gel is currently being evaluated by the FDA in the US. For more information, contact LEO Pharma on:

T +61 1800 991 778

E medical-info.au@leo-pharma.com

Can't find the answer you're looking for?

Email enquiries@qimr.edu.au or call +61 7 3362 0222.