THE WALTER AND ELIZA HALL INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL RESEARCH

The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, commonly referred to as WEHI, is Australia's oldest medical research institute. Founded in 1915 by Sir Walter and Lady Eliza Hall, the institute has a rich history of producing groundbreaking research in immunology and cancer. The institute has been led by several notable directors, including Sir Frank Macfarlane Burnet, who won the Nobel Prize in 1960 for his work on immunology. WEHI is known for its pioneering research in understanding and treating diseases such as blood, breast, and ovarian cancers, as well as inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune disorders. The institute has also made significant contributions to our understanding of infectious diseases such as malaria, HIV, and hepatitis B and C. With a team of over 750 researchers, WEHI is a leading medical research institution in Australia. Today, under the leadership of Professor Ken Smith, WEHI continues to push the boundaries of medical research, with a focus on translating laboratory discoveries into practical treatments for patients. The institute's close association with The University of Melbourne and The Royal Melbourne Hospital has enabled it to maintain strong connections with the medical community and drive innovation in the field of medical research.