In this special episode celebrating 80 years of QIMR Berghofer, one of the Institute’s longest-serving scientists about his early days in biochemistry, the mentors who shaped him, and the world-first research that’s changing lives. It’s funny, heartfelt, and full of science that hits close to home.

Stories of his time as a PhD student borrowing a ute to from UQ to take blood from truckdrivers on the roadside, “Robust discussions with his colleague,” and remembering life when finding the latest published paper was a social occasion. He fondly recalls the people and the work that make us punch above our weight.

The first in a special QIMR Berghofer Originals 80th Anniversary podcast series

Professor Michael Good AO is a distinguished immunologist and former director of QIMR, Berghofer (2000-2010). He joins Clare Blake to celebrate eight decades of bold ideas, real science and the brilliant men and women who made it happen.

What if we told you a scientist set out to cure malaria… and might end up curing cancer?

Join Associate Professor Michelle Wykes as she shares the remarkable story behind her game-changing discovery that could help treat common but tricky "cold cancers" like colon and triple-negative breast cancer. From jaw-dropping lab results to her surprising fibre epiphany (and love for burgers!), Michelle gets real about prevention, diet myths, and what it takes to move a promising treatment from mice to humans.

Big science, bigger dreams—and practical advice you can use tonight at dinner.

*Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Please seek your own medical advice.

It is a sickening blow when a child is diagnosed with brain cancer, and most of us know recurrence is the major concern, but less well known are the possible and permanent effects from radiation therapy. Professor Bryan Day and his team, and a collaboration from all around the world, have a likely breakthrough on both of these fronts.

Metastatic triple-negative breast cancer has limited treatment options and is commonly diagnosed in younger women, aged under 40. But a promising combination therapy could offer a new approach to target this highly aggressive and treatment-resistant type of breast cancer. QIMR Berghofer Professor Sudha Rao and Kazia Therapeutics CEO Dr John Friend share the incredible story that led to their collaboration, and a world-first clinical trial.

A groundbreaking new treatment is giving hope to critically ill Australians with severe viral infections. Professor Rajiv Khanna and his team at QIMR Berghofer developed a lifesaving immunotherapy helping patients who’ve run out of options. Hear the incredible stories behind this game-changing breakthrough.

Depression is not all the same, our researchers, for the first time can diagnose a severe form of depression known as melancholia by analysing facial expressions and brain activity during different types of movies.