In our 99 year history the institute has been home to thousands of outstanding scientists. Some of our most eminent alumni have profoundly changed the landscape of medical research and delivered real benefits to millions of people worldwide.

Miss Fannie Williams

Fannie Eleanor Williams was the institute’s first female medical research scientist, co-authoring 55 research publications.

Sir Frank Macfarlane Burnet

Sir Frank Macfarlane Burnet made immense contributions to immunology, highlighted by his receipt of the 1960 Nobel Prize.

Miss Dora Lush

Miss Dora Lush was a promising scientist whose life was cut tragically short when she contracted a disease she was studying at the institute.

Sir Gustav Nossal

Sir Gustav is revered for exceptional research achievements in the field of immunology and for his outstanding scientific leadership.

Dr Margaret Holmes

Dr Holmes made significant contributions to immunology research, and also played a leading role in managing the institute.

Professor Ian Mackay

In his 24 years at the institute Professor Ian Mackay pioneered clinical research on autoimmunity and treating autoimmune disease.

Professor Jacques Miller

Professor Miller is famous for his discovery of the function of the thymus, revolutionising our understanding of immunology.

Professor Don Metcalf

Professor Metcalf is best known for his pioneering discovery of Colony Stimulating Factors, which have helped more than 20 million cancer patients, so far.