Griffith University’s Clinical Trial Unit: Celebrating A Decade of Health Innovation and Growth in Gold Coast’s Biomedical Sector
Clinical trials do more than advance science – they transform lives. For the past decade, Griffith University’s Clinical Trial Unit (CTU) has delivered on that promise, providing the community with access to innovative treatment options while helping shape one of the Gold Coast’s fastest-growing industries: biomedical technology.
Established in 2015 as a Core Research Facility to enable Griffith’s translational research, the CTU has evolved into a globally recognised clinical trial site providing professional trial site services. This transformation has been driven by expanding therapeutic areas, deepening clinical expertise, and advancing capabilities across all trial phases (I–IV).
Collaboration That Drives Change
The CTU’s success is built on strong partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders across industry and government. The Unit has helped to promote the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct (GCHKP) and supported investment attraction visits and events, fostering the precinct’s growth and cementing the Gold Coast as a hub for biomedical research and technology.
In 2017, the Unit spearheaded progressive agreements with Gold Coast Health to enable clinician and health service involvement in its clinical trials, and in 2022, the Unit played a key role in securing the establishment of the Translational Science Hub in Queensland, a first of its kind in collective partnership.
Research That Changes Lives
Over the years, the CTU has supported more than 50 Griffith researcher-driven projects translating discoveries from laboratory to clinical application – advancing vaccine development, informing treatment strategies, contributing to PhD completions and substantial research grant and commercial funding.
In addition, the Unit has conducted more than 80 industry-sponsored trials. Highlights include contributing to a commercial COVID-19 vaccine during the global pandemic and leading a Psoriatic Arthritis trial that resulted in TGA approval and PBS listing. The CTU achieved major milestones in 2024 by recruiting over 1,000 participants for a single study and being successful in recruiting for a rare disease trial.
Community At The Heart
Clinical trials are not just about data – they are about people. The CTU includes the Gold Coast community in its work by collaborating with key Gold Coast care and community organisations, hosting community events and supporting patient initiatives. It creates opportunities to educate and inspire, and a volunteer database of more than 6,000 reflects the Unit’s strong public engagement.
Educating The Next Generation
Through its educational seminars, student workshops, structured work placements and volunteering opportunities, the CTU has contributed significantly to shaping the clinical trial workforce of tomorrow. As an all-female team, it proudly champions the advancement of women in STEM.
The Future In Sight
CTU’s next milestone is its planned expansion into the Health and Advanced Technology Research and Innovation Centre (HATRIC) in 2027. The additional CTU footprint will deepen engagement with clinicians, startups and the broader biotech industry in the GCHKP, augment current capabilities and strengthen collaboration with GCHHS.
Help Drive the Next Breakthrough
From humble beginnings to a global reputation, Griffith University’s CTU has become a cornerstone of health advancement and economic growth in Queensland and across Australia. Its mission remains clear: deliver world-class clinical research, improve lives and build a healthier future for all.
Be part of the Unit’s journey to shape the future of health innovation.
- Visit the website to learn more and join the volunteer database
- Connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook
