About WEHI

Strong technology platforms for Biotechnology

We live in the new era of large-scale biomedical research. In order to remain globally competitive in the search for new and more effective diagnostics, therapies and preventative measures, it is vital to invest in sophisticated enabling technology platforms. WEHI has invested heavily in key technology platforms in order to gain leverage from its strong position in basic research.

These include:

• Large scale DNA sequencing - Australian Genome Research Facility established in partnership with The University of Queensland
• Advanced proteomics - Joint ProteomicS Laboratory with the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research
• Bioinformatics and large scale DNA microarray analysis
• Hybridoma production
• Advanced mouse genetics - gene “knock-out/in” to create human disease models
• Structural biology - x-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy
• Synthetic and medicinal chemistry
• Molecular modelling
• In silico screening using Beowulf computer cluster and proprietary algorithms
• High throughput chemical screening using unique chemical libraries

Facilities

WEHI has developed new facilities within the Bio21 Parkville precinct and LaTrobe University's R&D Park, to house the platform technologies, and ramp up the Institute's capacity to contribute to biotechnology development.

Future

• Ongoing investment in current technology platforms and infrastructure to keep them state-of-the-art and at world competitive levels.
• Access to other rapidly advancing technologies, including imaging, nanotechnology, massively multivariate data analysis and virtual modelling of whole cell, organ or body systems.
• Ongoing recruitment of scientists and technicians experienced at the cutting edge of technology development and its application to medical and biological research.
• Stronger links with clinical researchers to ensure that the significant advances being made in biomedical result in better clinical applications.

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This page was last modified 12:09 PM (EST) on Thursday, December 11, 2003.

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