La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS)
La Trobe University has established itself as a world-class research leader in the areas of molecular science, biotechnology and nanotechnology. As recipient of $64 million of funds from the Federal Budget, La Trobe University is now establishing the La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS).
LIMS, along with partners in the broader Northern Melbourne Science Precinct, will train the next generation of scientists with skills to facilitate the development of a robust biotechnology industry. The Institute will support, expand and extend the teaching and research work of the School of Molecular Sciences at La Trobe University.
Different disciplines (biochemistry, chemistry, genetics, plant biology, physiology, physics, molecular archaeology) will intermingle in shared workspace to achieve aims that would not be possible in traditional academic settings. Postgraduate and postdoctoral scientists will work in an environment in which basic research findings are pursued, but also successfully translated into commercial products, such as therapeutic and diagnostic reagents for the treatment of cancer and autoimmune disease.
Acting as a hub, LIMS will provide infrastructure for collaborative projects involving partners that include the CRCs for Biomarker Translation and Cancer Therapeutics, the Victorian AgriBioscience Centre, the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coherent X-ray Science, and the Biosciences Research Institute.
LIMS will also work to expose secondary school students to university research and higher education, to provoke their interest in science, and to inspire them to consider careers in science.
