Sarah Andersson

Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI)

Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI) is the largest child health research institute in Australia and one of the top three worldwide. Our team of more than 1200 talented researchers is dedicated to making discoveries to prevent and treat childhood conditions. Many of our researchers are also clinicians at The Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne, where the Institute is based. Their research is informed by the problems facing their patients but it also means when a discovery is made, this is quickly transformed into practical treatments for children in the hospital. The Institute marked its 30th anniversary in 2016. Our story began in 1986 when paediatrician Professor David Danks established the original Murdoch Institute with the unparalleled generosity and support of Dame Elisabeth Murdoch. MCRI research improves the lives of millions of kids each year. We research health conditions including diabetes, allergies, asthma, premature birth and mental health problems, which are on the rise in our children, and conditions including cancer and genetic disorders that remain unsolved. We study the health of communities to understand what factors influence child health at the population level and research common infections and immune conditions both locally and globally. Our work goes beyond research. We are one of the only research institutes in Australia to offer genetic testing to find answers for families of children with previously undiagnosed conditions, using the latest genetic sequencing technology. We also conduct national newborn screening and allow children to access personalised treatments for conditions like cancer.