We are one of Australia’s flagship biomedical research institutes
The Institute for Glycomics is one of Australia’s flagship multidisciplinary biomedical research institutes. Established in February 2000, the Institute strives to be a world leader in the discovery and development of next generation drugs, vaccines and diagnostics in the fight against diseases of global impact.
The Institute for Glycomics is based at the heart of Griffith University’s Gold Coast campus in Queensland and plays an integral role within the emerging Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct.
The Institute boasts state-of-the-art facilities combined with some of the world’s most outstanding researchers with a focus on 'Glycomics', a constantly expanding field that explores the structural and functional properties of carbohydrates (sugars). Glycomics research is conducted worldwide in projects that cut across multiple disciplines, applying new approaches to treatment and prevention of diseases. Our unique research expertise makes us the only institute of its kind in Australia and only one of a handful in the world.
The Institute’s research primarily targets prevention and cures for cancers, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative disorders, with a focus on translational research which will inevitably have a positive impact on human health globally.
This rich research environment provides exceptional postgraduate education programs for the nation’s future scientists.
200+ research and support members
$10,000,000+ external research income p.a.
120+ peer reviewed publications p.a.
14,000+ citations (over 10 years)
Our leadership team
Director
Professor Mark von Itzstein AO
Mark has international standing in glycoscience, medicinal chemistry and drug discovery, particularly in the area of anti-infective drug discovery.
He has established an internationally-recognised research program that is investigating the discovery of novel anti-microbial drugs, including novel anti-influenza drugs, anti-parainfluenza and anti-cancer drugs based on carbohydrate-related pathways and the outcomes of these programs are apparent from his publication record.
Deputy Director
Professor Michael Jennings
Michael has international standing in infectious diseases research with a focus on glycoscience, genetics, epigenetics and vaccine development, particularly in pathogenic Neisseria and Haemophilus influenzae. His current research is investigating the molecular basis for interactions between a range of pathogens and the human host and the application of this data to develop strategies for diagnostics, prevention and treatment of disease.
General Manager
Dr Chris Davis
Having more than thirteen years management experience in innovation and commercialisation, working at the academic/industry interface, Chris' role is to lead a group of professionals dedicated to the strategic and operational development of the Institute. As General Manager, his primary focus is on translation and commercialisation of our scientific discoveries for social and economic benefit, locally and globally.
Chris has held a number of board positions. He is currently Deputy Chair of the Ausbiotech Ltd Qld Committee.
Our researchers
Meet the experts who make up our Institute and find out more about their individual research strengths.
We are located within the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct
The Institute for Glycomics is based at the heart of Griffith University’s Gold Coast campus within the 200-hectare Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct (GCHKP). The Precinct is a unique global business location for high-tech industry development and innovation, research collaboration and jobs of the future.
Supported by $5 billion of infrastructure, including the world-class Griffith University and two major hospitals, GCHKP is transforming Australia’s leading lifestyle city. Boasting a combination of expertise, infrastructure and lifestyle unique in Australia, nine hectares of greenfield GCHKP land is available for health and innovation investment, serviced by Gold Coast light rail and with easy transport access.
The Institute for Glycomics has a strong global investment attraction strategy for leading biotechnology companies, leveraging clinical research and trial opportunities with the co-located Gold Coast University Hospital and Gold Coast Private Hospital, as well as Menzies Health Institute Queensland.
The GCHKP, which currently boasts almost 10,000 staff and more than 18,000 students, is set to employ over 26,000 people—11% of current Gold Coast jobs—generating gross value of $2.9 billion for the city’s economy. It’s also a vibrant mixed-use community in which to live, work, study and play. Set to be home to 2,500 residents the GCHKP boasts parkland and green spaces, street-level retail and dining, co-working and innovation spaces, entertainment facilities and a boutique hotel.