Our unique approach
Nestled within three UNESCO biospheres, UniSC is uniquely positioned to lead the way in sustainable biotechnology innovations that make significant regional impact spanning human, animal, and environmental domains. With strong foundations in our Schools of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Health, and complemented by cutting-edge Institutes and Centres, we boldly confront today’s most critical global challenges.
School of Science, Technology and Engineering (SSTE)
Operating within rainforests and wetlands
From the Moreton Bay to the Fraser Coast, including our K’gari Research and Learning Centre, SSTE has a strong focus on animal ecology, environmental science, and sustainability. Our biotechnology research includes biomedical engineering, bio-inspired robotic engineering, seaweed superfood production, climate and pollution modelling, geospatial imaging, and eDNA biodiversity monitoring.
School of Health (SoH)
Our dedication to regional Australia is more than a promise, it’s a reality
The SoH serves regional communities across biomedicine, paramedicine, nursing, midwifery,
dietetics, nutrition, public health, and psychology. We’re supported by our world-class sports precinct, biomedical laboratories, and simulation wards. Notably, Our Pēpi-Pod® Program is protecting vulnerable infants, and our Foot-PAD Trial seeks a brighter future for 20 percent of Australians suffering from Peripheral Artery Disease.
Cutting-edge biotechnology facilities and expertise
UniSC’s advanced biotechnology facilities enable pioneering research in microbiology, analytical chemistry, genetics, in vitro 3D organ modelling, bioactive compounds, and a diverse range of ‘omics. Our specialized equipment accelerates progress in biomedical science, neuroscience, aquaculture, animal ecology and plant research, supported by our simulation and visualization labs. Combined with our remarkable interdisciplinary academics, we’re fostering innovation and providing new avenues for pharmaceutical and biotechnology collaborations.
Centre for Bioinnovation (CBI)
Using bio-inspired approaches to address challenges in health, food and the environment, CBI uses a range of biotechnologies including genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Our research is advancing aquaculture, conservation, applied microbiology, and biodiscovery of natural products, including novel diagnostics, vaccines, and antimicrobials.
Thompson Institute (TI)
At the forefront of mental health research with a Multimodal Neuroimaging approach, UniSC’s TI uses MRI, EEG, and TMS to investigate various disorders and aging effects, and assess intervention efficacy. We’re shaping a brighter future for mental health through our Youth Mental Health, Healthy Brain Aging, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and PTSD research.
Forest Research Institute (FRI)
Making direct and meaningful contributions to the sustainability of our wooded landscapes, UniSCs FRI focuses on the forest value chain, tropical forests, and timber durability and design. Our specific biotechnology research targets population genetics, pheromone discovery, and sustainable pest management for improving our timber industry.
Sunshine Coast Health Institute (SCHI)
Located within the Sunshine Coast University Hospital, SCHI is a collaboration between UniSC, the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service, TAFE Queensland and Griffith University. Together, we tackle regional and national healthcare challenges, focusing on practice education, infectious diseases, healthy aging, maternal and child health, and the optimization of health services.
Internationally acclaimed clinical trials
Our UniSC clinical trials centre operates across five facilities in South East Queensland. We excel in all trial phases, including first-in-human to phase IV, for drugs, devices, and diagnostics, specialising in vaccines, cancer, and chronic diseases, with a focus on malaria and COVID vaccine development.
Innovation Centre
Unlock regional community potential through our Innovation Centre. We support businesses at all stages, offering flexible options including training and mentoring, 24/7 access, unlimited data, meeting rooms, and connections
to the UniSC community.
Sustainability is at our core
UniSC is ranked among the world’s best for our success and impact in addressing the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals in the areas of clean water and sanitation, life on land and below the water, and climate action.
Collaborate with us
Get in touch about our biotechnology initiatives.
Contact Michelle Searle — msearle@usc.edu.au