The Australian Society For Medical Research

The Australian Society for Medical Research (ASMR) is a leading nonprofit organization in Australia, dedicated to promoting health and medical research. Founded in 1961, ASMR serves as the peak professional society for Australian health and medical researchers. It plays a crucial role in scientific, political, and public advocacy for the sector.

Mission and Vision

ASMR's mission is to empower research for health and wellbeing, envisioning a healthy and equitable Australia. The organization focuses on fostering excellence in health and medical research, expanding the interface between basic science and clinical research, and promoting community understanding and support for medical research.

Membership and Representation

ASMR has a diverse membership base, including more than 1,600 direct members and an additional 20,000 researchers from over 75 affiliated professional societies, institutes, and medical colleges. Furthermore, corporate and disease-related foundation memberships bring another 100,000 Australians interested in health and medical research into the ASMR network.

Activities and Initiatives

Key activities of ASMR include:

• ASMR Medical Research Week: An annual national event aimed at raising public awareness of medical research in Australia.
• Research Awards: Encouraging excellence in health and medical research through various award programs.
• Professional and Career Development Programs: Offers mentoring, student travel grants, and professional development seminars.
• Public Lectures and Events: Organizes public lectures, scientific meetings, and advocacy initiatives to promote medical research.

Advocacy and Outreach

ASMR acts as a unified voice for the Australian health and medical research sector, providing strong advocacy for research funding and policy. It collaborates with major research bodies, including the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and the Australian Research Council (ARC). ASMR's outreach includes educating schools and community groups about medical research, promoting community engagement and understanding.

Annual Events

Each year, ASMR hosts a series of state scientific meetings and gala dinners across Australia, concluding with the National Scientific Conference. These events provide opportunities for researchers to share findings and network within the community. Additionally, ASMR organizes a national lecture tour by the ASMR Medallist, further promoting medical research achievements nationwide.

Funding and Support

ASMR receives support from various sources, including funding from the NHMRC for initiatives like ASMR Medical Research Week. This funding helps in organizing public outreach programs to enhance awareness of medical research across Australia.

The Australian Society for Medical Research continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of health and medical research in Australia by fostering collaboration, innovation, and public engagement.

[1] https://asmr.org.au [2] https://asmr.org.au/about-the-asmr/ [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/1d8d8520-39af-e811-a961-000d3ad24182 [4] https://www.aph.gov.au/DocumentStore.ashx?id=279bbd6d-2f1d-4a57-9ef1-fcdfc94d1448&subId=612855 [5] https://www.aph.gov.au/DocumentStore.ashx?id=40b10071-7d7e-4ef7-88f3-23c8e82e5a6a&subId=691602