“Imagine if our bodies could fight off cancer as easily as a cold.” That’s the kind of thinking that fuels the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research. It stands right here in front of you.
The Malaghan Institute is New Zealand’s leading independent biomedical research institute. It is focused on immunology and immunotherapy. The Malaghan Institute is based right here in Wellington. It is located on Victoria University’s Kelburn campus.
Let’s step back in time. The concept of a Wellington-based medical research institute was born in the early 1960s. Back then, medical research in New Zealand was limited. There was a lack of facilities and support. The Wellington Cancer and Medical Research Institute opened on July 26, 1979. It was located in rented space at the Wellington School of Medicine.
Fast forward to 1986. The institute’s name changed to the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research. This name honors Len Malaghan. He was the co-founder of Tip Top Ice Cream. Len and his wife Ann provided crucial support. Their gift of shares seeded the institute. Sadly, Len passed away from cancer at just 61 years old.
In 2004, the Malaghan Institute moved to a purpose-built facility. This is where we stand now at Victoria University of Wellington.
The Malaghan Institute specializes in the immune system. Scientists here explore how to harness it. Their goal is to improve human health. Key research areas include cancer and infectious diseases. They also study allergic and inflammatory diseases.
Did you know the Malaghan Institute started New Zealand’s first clinical trial of CAR T-cell therapy in 2019? This was a third-generation CAR T-cell therapy.
The Malaghan Institute is a registered charity. It relies on community support. It also depends on the corporate sector and grants.
World-class immunological research and clinical trials occur on one site here. Scientists and clinicians work side by side. They make new discoveries in the lab. Then, they translate these into new treatment options. Finally, they test them in the clinic.
Many senior Malaghan Institute staff teach at the School of Biological Sciences. They supervise research students. Postgraduate study positions are available here at the Malaghan Institute. It is considered a leading organization for PhD studies in immunology. Students receive intensive training. They learn about cutting-edge technologies and ideas.
The Malaghan Institute won the Dominion Post Gold Award in 2014. This recognized its 30-year history of finding better treatments. These included treatments for cancer and asthma. It also included allergies.
The Malaghan Institute continues to push boundaries. It strives to unlock the secrets of the immune system. The institute is driven by the vision of a healthier future for all. This is achieved through the power of immunological research.