We're Not Just Making History. We're Changing Futures

Research improves lives today with better treatments and care—while shaping the healthcare breakthroughs of tomorrow. Donate today to help turn research into life-changing patient solutions.

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Celebrating 30 Years of Delivering Real Health Impact

Since our founding in 1994, Wesley Research Institute (WRI) has grown into a leader in health and medical research, consistently working to improve patient outcomes.

Clinical Trials

Explore our clinical trials open for participation, with focus areas on Coeliac Disease and Immune Health, Cardiology and Critical Care, Pulmonary Hypertension, Orthopaedics, Neurology and Rare Diseases.

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Science to Art

A breathtaking image capturing the intricate details of skin cancer has earned the Queensland Spatial Biology Centre (QSBC) scientists the prestigious 2025 National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Science to Art Award.

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Established in 1994, Wesley Research Institute is the official research partner for UnitingCare. Our research extends across the UnitingCare network including Lifeline, Bluecare and four private hospitals, St Andrews War Memorial Hospital, The Wesley Hospital, Buderim Private Hospital and St Stephens at Hervey Bay.

We predominately focus on translational research and work closely with experienced doctors, nurses and allied health professionals to deliver improved treatments, better diagnostics, and enhanced care.

We are focused on making a real difference, committed to providing better outcomes and quality of life for patients and their families, as well as building supportive communities.

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Research into faster and more accurate diagnosis

Improve understanding
around the causes of disease & better prediction of disease progression

Increase survival and quality of life for patients and families

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Our areas of research

Participate in a clinical trial

How you can support research

Our people & Researchers

Acknowledgement of Country

Wesley Research Institute acknowledges this Country and its Traditional Custodians. We acknowledge and respect the spiritual relationship between Traditional Custodians and this Country, which has inspired language, songs, dances, lore and dreaming stories over many thousands of years. We pay our respects to the Elders, those who have passed into the dreaming; those here today; those of tomorrow. May we continue to peacefully walk together in gratitude, respect and kindness in caring for this Country and one another.

Latest News & Discoveries

Living with FSHD: A Personal Journey of Strength, Hope, and Family

Meet Leona Luke: a 46-year-old mum from the Gold Coast. While her life seems like it’s all about family and fulfilling her everyday roles, Leona’s journey has been anything but typical. Leona was diagnosed with Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD), a progressive genetic disorder that weakens muscles over time.

Emma’s Story – A Life Transformed by Research

After 12 months of intensive treatment for breast cancer, Emma was left to navigate life after cancer on her own. She had survived, but she didn’t have the tools or support to truly thrive. That’s where research made the difference.

More Than a Diet: Jenny’s Path to Coeliac Awareness

Jenny, a coeliac disease clinical trial participant shares her story. Jenny’s 18 year journey with coeliac disease has led her to become a strong advocate for research and clinical trials.

Micro and Nanoplastics in the Human Cardiovascular System

A recent scoping review, led by Research Fellow Adrian Goldsworthy from the Wesley Research Institute, has raised concerns about the presence of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the human cardiovascular system.

Researchers attend world’s largest cancer research conference in Chicago

A leading Brisbane-based team has presented cutting-edge cancer research findings at the 2025 American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting in Chicago.

Clinical Research Changes Futures

Every day, patients walk through our hospital doors seeking the best possible care. Behind the scenes, clinicians at The Wesley Hospital, St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital, Buderim Private Hospital, and St Stephen’s Hospital are leading research that enhances patient outcomes.

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