Life Science Incubator officially opens at QIMR Berghofer

16 APRIL 2026

Following its announcement in 2025, the Life Science Incubator at QIMR Berghofer (LSI@QIMR Berghofer) officially opened this week, marking a major milestone for Queensland’s rapidly growing biomedical and life sciences sector.

Delivered through a strategic partnership between QIMR Berghofer and Altea Investments, LSI@QIMR Berghofer brings a globally connected life science innovation platform to Brisbane - building on the success of LSI’s established hubs in Singapore.

The facility provides purpose-built laboratory and office space designed to support emerging and scaling life science companies, while fostering collaboration between researchers, industry, and investors.

The official opening was attended by key representatives from government, industry, and the life sciences community, including Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) CEO Anthony Ryan and Altea Investments CIO John Ratcliffe, who jointly participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Guests were welcomed with a formal program of speeches, followed by guided laboratory tours showcasing the facility and its first cohort of resident companies.

Life Science Incubator General Manager, Zeïna Henni, said the opening represents an important step in connecting Queensland’s research excellence with global commercialisation pathways.

“LSI@QIMR Berghofer is about connecting Queensland innovation to the global stage,” Ms Henni said.

“We’re creating a platform where companies can start, grow and scale in Brisbane—and actively enabling their expansion into international markets through LSI’s global network.”

Altea Investments Chief Investment Officer John Ratcliffe, keynote speaker at the event, said the opening reflects a broader commitment to investing in life sciences infrastructure that drives long-term impact.

“This investment reflects our long-term commitment to Queensland and its future as a global life sciences hub,” Mr Ratcliffe said.

“LSI@QIMR Berghofer is the first step in a broader strategy to develop the infrastructure and platforms needed to support companies at scale and attract international investment into the region.”

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the new life sciences incubator would help cement Brisbane as a global destination for investment, research and innovation.

“The future of biomedical innovation in our city is incredibly bright,” Cr Schrinner said.

“This incubator will drive collaboration and open doors to global markets for Brisbane’s life sciences sector.

“It will back new research, attract international partners and strengthen Brisbane’s reputation as a global hub for innovation.”

LSI@QIMR Berghofer is already home to a growing cohort of innovative life science companies, including Cleo Life Sciences and Ketim, reflecting strong early demand for flexible, high-quality laboratory space in Queensland.

The opening was attended by representatives from QIMR Berghofer, Altea Investments, Life Science Incubator, Brisbane Economic Development Agency, and resident companies, underscoring the collaborative foundation of the initiative.

Aerial view