QIMR Berghofer and Metro North Hospital and Health Service sign historic collaboration

QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute and the state’s largest hospital and health service have today signed a historic memorandum of understanding (MOU) to extend their already close collaboration and help build Herston, where they are based, into a leading health precinct.

The MOU will see more collaborations between researchers at QIMR Berghofer and clinicians from Metro North Hospital and Health Service (Metro North HHS), which includes Queensland’s largest public hospital, the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH).

QIMR Berghofer Director and CEO, Professor Frank Gannon, said closer working relationships between researchers and clinicians were vital to ensure science conducted in laboratories could be translated into treatments for patients.

“We have worked closely together for years and are already neighbours at Herston in Brisbane, so it just makes sense to formalise an agreement that will see us develop shared strategies, facilities and staff,” Professor Gannon said.

“Working together will also maximise our chances of securing funding from the Medical Research Future Fund for new, innovative projects.”

Metro North HHS Chief Executive, Shaun Drummond, said the agreement would also support the health service’s research activities and goals.

“Many of our patients present to our health services suffering from cancer, chronic disorders, infectious diseases and mental health problems, which are the areas in which QIMR Berghofer scientists have been working to find treatments,” Mr Drummond said.

“By strengthening our links with QIMR Berghofer we can better fulfill our aim to partner with organisations that share our vision of ensuring the next wave of cutting edge healthcare is within the grasp of today’s patients.”

The MOU will continue for three years with the option of extension by mutual agreement.