MELBOURNE, 7 April 2022: Victoria’s excellence in taking world-leading research and developing life-changing medicines has been confirmed in a landmark ranking that names Monash University as the global leader in the field.
Monash University overnight was named the world’s top university in Pharmacy and Pharmacology in the authoritative QS World University Rankings. It is the first time that an Australian university has achieved this rank in life sciences, with Monash topping renowned institutions including the University of Oxford, Harvard University and the University of Cambridge.
“This is a proud achievement for Monash. Placing number one in Pharmacy and Pharmacology demonstrates our research and education excellence in this field, which is critical for the future health of our community, ” says Monash University vice-chancellor Professor Margaret Gardner AC.
Monash’s confirmation as the leader in pharmaceutical sciences and drug discovery follows achievements including the development of Australia’s first COVID-19 mRNA vaccine, manufactured locally for clinical trials, and the launch of Septerna, a biotech company dedicated to discovering and advancing novel small molecule medicines.
Monash researchers are also developing an inhaled oxytocin powder for postpartum hemorrhage, which could save many lives in developing countries where treatment for this condition is currently hard to obtain.
Victoria’s Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford says, “From its mRNA vaccine candidate to a powder to treat postpartum hemorrhage, Monash is leading the world.”
“Victorian researchers make life-changing discoveries and we are committed to helping them bring these breakthroughs to our community and to people around the world.”
