The three new buildings, constructed in stages over 9 years for the John Curtin School of Medical Research at The Australian National University, have gained international recognition and admiration for their design and functionality.

The design of the building is influenced by the DNA double helix, which increases the "organic" look of the building. The school is a special purpose building combining a public interface with state of the art secure research and laboratory facilities.

To this end a significant amount of design effort has been applied to physical interrelationships and requirements for such a purpose.


The project involved three stages as part of a master planned outcome to the value of approximately $130M. The stages needed to be progressively completed and occupied to allow the Research School to maintain its on-going research activities.

This impressive new research facility is both a monument to the achievements of the pioneering work already undertaken at ANU and an inspiration for those future generations undertaking any medical research.

Conference & function facilities

The John Curtin School of Medical Research building is an architectural icon on the ANU campus. This prestigious building houses venues available for both ANU and external use.

• Catering packages are available from the Vanillabean Cafe which is located within the foyer of the building.
• Visitor parking.

*Please note: If you are considering holding a function within the school, please be aware that we do not provide any secretarial services (including photocopying, booking of taxis, supply of stationery etc) for meeting attendees or organisers. For further information please contact jcsmr.communications@anu.edu.au