Construction of the $90 million Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) building is officially underway, signalling the start of one of the most significant research infrastructure projects in the region’s history.

Construction of the $90 million Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) building is officially underway, signalling the start of one of the most significant research infrastructure projects in the region’s history.

The sealing of a Time Capsule titled “Knowing” by Federal Member for Charlton, Greg Combet and HMRI Director, Professor Maree Gleeson has marked the commencement of the project on the Rankin Park campus, adjacent to JohnHunter Hospital.

“Our history and vision for the future has been sealed for the next 50 years along with contributions from community leaders, researchers and many of the dedicated people who have contributed to HMRI’s success and the design of the new building. “Knowing” was selected as the title, as knowing what we do now, will help our future researchers know even more,” Professor Gleeson said.

“The state of the art facility will bring together 450 of our best minds to share ideas under the one roof and create opportunities to facilitate better health outcomes for the community.”

The building has been made possible through unprecedented community support and funding from Federal and State Governments and the University of Newcastle.

“I believe this world class facility will further cement HMRI as one of the most important research hubs in Australia,” Federal Member for Charlton, Greg Combet said.

“It will be critical in addressing health and medical questions for future generations and will provide a vital platform to further promote research, training and employment in the Hunter.”

“I am proud to be part of a Government that is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of all Australians and proud the Hunter region is playing a significant part in providing the evidence to support improved healthcare for our nation,” he said.

Hunter New England Health Chief Executive Dr Nigel Lyons said the new HMRI Building will consolidate researchers in a purpose built research facility and would align with the clinical services of the region’s major teaching hospital.

“The new building will enhance their research interactions and lead to greater integration with clinical services. Quality research facilities not only attract the best researchers to an Institute, but also attract the best clinicians to the health service. This will help to ensure that the people of the Hunter and beyond have access to the best possible healthcare,” Dr Lyons said.