The University of Melbourne and radiopharmaceutical manufacturer Cyclotek today opened the Laboratory for Advanced Radiochemical Science (LARS), a new facility designed to accelerate the development of next-generation cancer diagnostics and therapies.
Located at the University's Parkville campus, LARS brings together leading research and student training with advanced manufacturing of molecular targeted therapies, helping translate new discoveries into clinical and commercial outcomes.
The partnership strengthens Australia's sovereign capability in radiopharmaceuticals and supports a growing pipeline of clinical trials and industry collaboration.
Professor Moira O'Bryan, Dean of the Faculty of Science, said the facility connects research and education with real-world impact.
"LARS gives our students and researchers direct exposure to industry and clinical challenges, accelerating the pathway from discovery to outcomes that matter for patients."
Dr James Glasgow, CEO of Cyclotek, said the facility strengthens the company's role in translating research into practice.
"This partnership allows us to take innovation beyond the lab, into clinical trials, manufacturing and patient care. It also strengthens Australia's position as a partner for global radiopharmaceutical and device development."
At the official opening of LARS (from L-R): Professor Paul Donnelly, Richard Robson Chair of Chemistry, Professor Moira O'Bryan, Dean of Science, Professor Mark Cassidy, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), University of Melbourne and Dr James Glasgow, CEO of Cyclotek.
University of Melbourne Professor Paul Donnelly, who holds the Richard Robson Chair of Chemistry, is one of the lead researchers who will work in the LARS.
"The laboratory will support research into the design and synthesis of new molecules with potential applications as radioactive drugs," Professor Donnelly said.
"This partnership will also expose University researchers to the opportunities and commercial realities of pharmaceutical research."
Cyclotek supports more than 150,000 patient procedures annually across Australia and New Zealand and works with a broad network of clinical and research partners.
LARS will support new dynamic University and industry partnerships with a goal to improve access to advanced radionuclide-based diagnostics and therapies.
