Doors open to researchers

Thursday, 3 July 2014

The Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) will open its doors to the public for a rare glimpse into the latest medical research discoveries, with the opportunity to meet some of the University of Newcastle's globally-recognised researchers.

HMRI Open Day

On Friday 4 July, the second annual HMRI Open Day will provide guests with the opportunity to see first-hand the latest innovations by experts in a range of health areas, including cancer, asthma, nutrition and diabetes, and how these findings translate into happier, healthier and longer lives for families in the Hunter, around Australia and around the world.

This year, young people will also have the chance to take a sneak peek at 'a day in the life of medical researcher', with a behind-the-scenes tour. Information on available pathways to help high school students enter the research field will also be on offer.

Guided tours throughout the day offer the opportunity for visitors to explore the advanced medical research facility, including the cancer and pregnancy laboratories and new HMRI Clinical Trials Centre.

An interactive mini-expo, information sessions and Q&A debate will also feature on the day, highlighting the innovative, life-changing research already developed out of HMRI and exploring the future of medical research with some of the institute's experts.

The Open Day caters to the whole family, and children are encouraged to participate in a range of fun activities at the Kids' Corner, including science experiments and the creation of edible 'DNA' models.  Parents can join some family-focused physical activity sessions, which will be run by Professor Phil Morgan from the University of Newcastle's Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition.

Adults are invited to a special meet-the-research cocktail party in the evening, an exclusive ticketed event that allows one-on-one discussion with medical researchers from HMRI over a quiet drink and canapés.

The HMRI Open Day will take place on Friday July 4 from 1pm to 8pm at the HMRI Building Lot 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights.

For more information or to register visit www.hmri.com.au/hmri-event/hmri-open-day/.

  • 1pm - 5pm: Interactive Research Expo
  • 1pm - 4.30pm: Kids' Corner
  • 2.30pm - 4pm: Behind the Scenes High School Tour
  • 1.30pm - 4.30pm: Research Laboratory and Clinical Trials Centre Tours
  • 1pm - 4.30pm: Research Information Sessions
  • 5.30pm - 6.30pm: Q+A Research Debate
  • 6.30pm - 8pm: Meet-the-researchers Cocktail Party

HMRI is a partnership between the University of Newcastle, Hunter New England Health and the community.

About HMRI:

The Hunter Medical Research Institute is a translational research institute. Since 1998, its pioneering partnership with the University of Newcastle and Hunter New England Local Health District has delivered key translational health and medical research and technology closely aligned to community health needs.

Throughout Newcastle and the Hunter, more than 1200 clinical and biomedical researchers and support staff are employed across seven HMRI Research Programs, striving to prevent, cure and treat a diverse range of serious illnesses by translating research findings made in the laboratory and through advanced imaging techniques, into real health treatments and preventative strategies for the community.

HMRI provides vital funding and facilities to fuel research, but the heart and soul of the Institute are people – the researchers, the generous donors and supporters, the committed volunteers, and the patients who participate in trials and ultimately benefit from the research results.

Contact

  • Media and Public Relations.
  • Phone: +61 2 4921 5577.

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