The Garvan Institute of Medical Research is one of Australia’s largest medical research institutes, and is internationally recognised for its work in cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis and many other disease areas.
The Institute was established in 1963 by the Sisters of Charity as a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving human health through medical research. The Institute is now home to over 600 scientists, students and support staff, who are working to understand the causes of disease and develop new treatments.
Garvan’s work is supported by generous donations from the community and various fundraising initiatives. The Institute also receives funding from the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and other government agencies.
Garvan’s main campus is located in Sydney’s Darlinghurst, with satellite laboratories at St Vincent’s Hospital (Sydney), Prince of Wales Hospital (Randwick) and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (Camperdown). The Institute also has a strong presence in Melbourne, with a laboratory based at St Vincent’s Hospital (Fitzroy).
The Garvan Institute is named after Sir Patrick Francis Garvan (1865-1946), an Irish-born lawyer, politician and philanthropist who migrated to Australia in 1883. Sir Patrick was a committed supporter of medical research and education, donating generously to both causes throughout his life. In recognition of his generosity, the Sisters of Charity chose to name their new institute after him.