The John Curtin School of Medical Research was established in 1948 as a founding school of the Australian National University. We are renowned for pioneering medical breakthroughs. With a legacy of three Nobel Laureates and a league of exceptional researchers, our focus is collaborative, innovative research tackling diseases that encompass cancer, infectious diseases and neurological conditions using our expertise in immunology, cancer, genomics, neuroscience, infectious diseases, and blood disorders.
We are dedicated to cross-disciplinary research that spearheads innovative solutions to address major Australian and global health issues. And with a legacy steeped in excellence, we relentlessly explore and decipher molecular processes underpinning cancer, infectious diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. Our discoveries uncover new molecular insights and treatments. Beyond our research, we are committed to supporting and guiding the next wave of researchers, ensuring the continuity of groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in medical science for Australia and the world.
Field sites & facilities
Explore some of the numerous of research sites and facilities established by our research schools in Australia and across the world. Researchers and students at ANU enjoy access to state-of-the-art equipment to help facilitate ground-breaking research.
Research projects
Browse research topics of the College of Science and the College of Health & Medicine with links to relevant researchers.
See our list of potential student projects to apply for PhB, Honours, PhD and other graduate degrees.
Stories
Research story
‘Cancer-blocking’ protein offers potential to transform cells from destructive to constructive
An immune protein could hold the key to developing new drugs to help fight bowel cancer.
Media release
New Canberra Clinical Phenomics Service to develop advanced diagnostic facility
A federal government grant will help ANU develop a clinical facility dedicated to developing tests for complex diseases.
News
‘Finally telling her story’: Trailblazer in science recognised with honorary degree
One of the ANU's first PhD graduates has been recognised for her exceptional contributions to experimental neuroscience.
Research story
Decoding messages from the dead
Leading researchers in innate immunity offer new perspectives into the messages dying or dead cells convey to the immune system.
News
What causes food poisoning and how can we avoid it?
ANU immunologists give us advice on how to make sure the food in your kitchen doesn't leave you sprinting to the bathroom.
Academic profile, Research story
In a field of daffodils, this cancer researcher is standing out
Dr Bonello is exploring the crucial elements of the tumour microenvironment.
Research story
Eye-opening discovery offers fresh hope for disease that can cause blindness
The findings could lead to new and tailored treatments for Sjogren’s Syndrome and lupus.
Research story
ANU researchers unlocking the full potential of RNA
JCSMR researchers have received a $4 million boost thanks to the Australian Government’s MRFF National Critical Infrastructure Initiative.
Research story
Music has the power to move us, and here’s the proof
Sarah Mann has experienced first-hand the way opera singing can impact people.
News
JCSMR duo take out top honours in ANU 3MT competition
Sasanan Trakansuebkul and Rakshanya Sekar were the winner and runner-up of the 3-minute thesis.