Fighting together for better health

The Hospital Research Foundation Group has been a stalwart supporter of community health and wellbeing for more than six decades.

“In 2025 alone we invested $26.9 million into our mission, having a real impact on healthcare not only in South Australia, but nationally and internationally,” said Professor Paul Flynn, Group Chief Executive Officer.

Through its 11 charities, The Hospital Research Foundation Group supports medical research and patient care in hospitals, community health initiatives and even delivers its own allied health services.

The Hospital Research Foundation Group has been one of SAHMRI’s major benefactors, awarding millions of dollars in grants to a wide range of research projects including cancer, dementia, heart disease and cardiovascular health, Indigenous health, aged care, preterm birth and perinatal health.

“Throughout our history, our focus has remained consistent: strengthening our capacity to fund high-quality research, support patients and families, and ensure donor generosity is translated into measurable health impact,” said Paul.

“Our partnership with SAHMRI is grounded in a shared commitment to excellence and impact. The Institute brings together world-class researchers across multiple disciplines, and that collaborative model aligns strongly with our own philosophy. The work undertaken at SAHMRI addresses some of the most pressing health issues facing Australians.”

Importantly, the partnership is built on trust and alignment – ensuring that every dollar granted to SAHMRI is directed towards research with the potential to make a life-changing difference,

“We are immensely grateful for the ongoing support of The Hospital Research Foundation Group, which has generated significant research advancements at SAHMRI,” said Professor Maria Makrides, Executive Director. “As a major partner we’re indebted to the generosity of the Foundation and by extension, the many people who have entrusted their donations to both of our organisations.”

In addition to its many ongoing grants, The Hospital Research Foundation Group supported two new projects at SAHMRI in 2025. Associate Professor Thomas Sullivan was awarded a three-year fellowship to develop statistical methods to improve the design and analysis of infant nutrition trials.

Dr Emma Solly’s two-year project grant will support the development of a nanoparticle delivery system capable of delivering a specific microRNA inhibitor to diabetic wounds, with the aim of restoring diabetes-impaired blood vessel growth and wound healing.

“We look for projects that combine scientific excellence with clear translational potential,” said Paul. “Funding decisions are made through a competitive grants process, so only the best and brightest are successful. We’re proud to fund many ongoing projects and Fellowships within SAHMRI, across our full scope from prebirth to end-of-life, and in healthcare areas that are important to our supporters.”

The Hospital Research Foundation Group is particularly drawn to projects that foster collaboration across disciplines and institutions, tackle an unmet need or comorbidities, and have the potential to influence clinical practice and patient outcomes.

“Our ultimate goal is impact – and SAHMRI has a proven track record of delivering world-class research that translates to better care,” said Paul.