About us
The Department of Immunology is a leading research hub within the Alfred Research Alliance, located on the Alfred Hospital campus in Melbourne. Embedded in a vibrant clinical and scientific ecosystem, our department works closely with partners across the Alfred Research Alliance to drive discovery at the intersection of immunology and human health.
Head of the Department
Our vision
To pioneer immunology research that bridges laboratory discovery and clinical practice, improving health outcomes through innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence.
Our mission
To advance fundamental and translational immunology through world‑class research, clinical collaboration, and exceptional education — generating discoveries that improve human health and training the next generation of scientific leaders.
Our Research
Our research spans the breadth of the immune system, with strengths in:
- Allergy and clinical immunology
- Urinary tract immunology and microbiology
- Leukocyte signalling
- Systems and mucosal immunology
- Skin and computational immunology
- Immune memory and humoral immunity
Across these areas, our teams investigate how the immune system interacts with other biological systems — including the microbiome, nervous system, metabolism, and endocrine pathways. This cross‑disciplinary approach fosters discoveries that advance understanding and contribute to improvements in health and wellbeing. Find out more about our research.
Clinical Integration
Working side‑by‑side with clinicians at the Alfred Hospital and partner institutes, our researchers ensure that laboratory insights are informed by real‑world health challenges. This close integration accelerates the development of impactful, patient‑centred solutions.
Education and Training
The Department of Immunology has a long and distinguished history of teaching excellence. As one of the first departments in Australia to offer undergraduate immunology programs, we have grown to deliver a comprehensive suite of undergraduate and postgraduate offerings in both immunology and pathology.
We are recognised as one of Monash University’s top academic units, with consistently outstanding student feedback and strong progression into honours and postgraduate research. As the only department within the School of Translational Medicine teaching into the Bachelor of Science, we play a central role in shaping the next generation of immunologists.
Our honours and postgraduate programs offer students access to both fundamental and clinically aligned research projects, providing a unique training environment that attracts students from across Australia and internationally. Find out more about our education and training.