QIMR Berghofer opens its doors to all

Fans of science and architecture can indulge both their loves at QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute’s Open Day in Herston next month.

For the first time, the Institute will take part in Brisbane Open House. QIMR Berghofer will be open to the public from 10am-2pm on Sunday 13 October.

Every half hour there will be free guided tours of the state-of-the-art laboratories in the stunning architect-designed QIMR Berghofer Central building. The 15-floor building is also home to the huge art installation water memory by acclaimed local artist Judy Watson.

QIMR Berghofer will also offer a series of entertaining and informative talks about the Institute’s research into cancer, infectious diseases and mental health and complex disorders.

Children haven’t been forgotten: there will be activities for the littlies in our specially-designed Education Laboratory and outdoor atrium. Unfortunately, children under 12 will not be allowed to tour the laboratories.

The schedule is:

10.15am-1.15pm Guided tours every half hour

10.30am-11.30am Cafe Scientique: How healthy will you be in 2023?

Hear cancer, infectious diseases and mental health specialists explain how medical research will change us in the next decade. Speakers include: Professor Michael Breakspear (Neuroscience), Professor James McCarthy (Infectious Diseases) and Dr Rachel Neale (Cancer and Population Health)

11.30-Noon and 12.30pm-1pm – water memory

Acclaimed local artist Judy Watson explains the inspiration behind her stunning art wall water memory

12pm-12.20pm Free seminar: What is your breast cancer risk?

Dr Stacey Edwards will explain the latest genetic findings into breast cancer and take your questions.

1pm-1.20pm Free seminar: HIV/AIDS

Associate Professor David Harrich will explain the latest strategies against HIV and take your questions.

1.30pm- 1.50pm Free seminar: The Buzz – The latest from the Mosquito Control Lab
As we head into the wet season, Dr Jonathan Darbro explains the latest research in our Mosquito Control Laboratory and takes your questions.

QIMR Berghofer is at 300 Herston Rd, Herston. Parking is available in the Wilson’s carpark across the road.

Brisbane Open House is a free two-day event which provides visitors with the rare opportunity to discover a wealth of architecturally diverse, well-designed and historic buildings in Brisbane city, South Bank, Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill, Bowen Hills and some suburbs further afield.

Brisbane Open House is part of the Open House Worldwide family and is an initiative of the Queensland Government Architect within the Department of Housing and Public Works, the Brisbane Development Association and the National Trust of Queensland.

For more information about Brisbane Open House visit www.brisbaneopenhouse.com.au