Frequently Asked Questions

From which institution do I obtain my degree?

QIMR has fully integrated research programs. Students are enrolled through the major Universities (University of Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Griffith University) but spend their time at QIMR under the direct supervision of QIMR scientists.
Many QIMR scientists hold joint or conjoint appointments at UQ enabling them to be principal supervisors. Students enrolled through QUT and Griffith have a principal supervisor at their university and an associate supervisor at QIMR. The students are awarded degrees from their own Universities.

What are the advantages for me in doing research at QIMR?

• You are exposed to a large breadth and variety of research - spanning the basic laboratory bench right through to early phase clinical trials.
• QIMR is Australia's largest medical research institute
• QIMR has a vibrant research culture and intellectual supportive climate
• Exposure to visiting international researchers
• There exist many opportunities to travel and present at national and international conferences
• The Institute has a number of recognised seminar programs and hosts many renowned national and international scientists. These promote the research ethos and are also conducive for initiating scientific collaboration.

What are the advantages of changing my environment after my undergraduate study?

• While you are at QIMR you still maintain close ties with the University. QIMR scientists have joint appointments through UQ
• You are still enrolled through the University and follow the same rules but are just off campus.

Insurance

As a university student you will be covered by your university for accidental injury during any activity relevant to the completion of your studies. This includes travelling to and from QIMR, field trips or university. There are however some very notable exclusions. Universities usually do not cover students for:-

1. Disease which can be transmitted sexually. (STDs)
2. Illness from exposure to radioactivity
3. Cancer

These exclusions are particularly relevant to students at QIMR, however you should check with your University to see if this is the case. It is very likely that during your study at QIMR you will be working with one of the following:-

Radioactive Isotopes

Carcinogenic or otherwise toxic agents

Bloods or other biological material that is potential carrying STDs

Currently, the QIMR student representatives, the Higher Degrees Committee and the University of Queensland Student Union are pursuing this matter through the University administrative system. In the meantime, it is vital that students understand the nature of these exclusions.

The longterm nature of illness arising from exposure to radioactivity or carcinogenic substances makes it difficult to find an insurance policy to cover this. However, it is vital that all students working with biological materials, particularly blood, make sure they are insured for potential STD exposure. This can be done through a separate policy. The details of which are listed below:

Intellectual Property

QIMR is currently re-writing it's intellectual property policy with regard to staff and students. The student body will be involved in drafting the new policy. We hope the policy will be completed in the near future.

It is the understanding of the QIMR student body that the University of Queensland, Queensland University of Technology and Griffith University do not claim any rights to student generated intellectual property. There are some exceptional circumstances and these are explained in detail at the relevant web sites.