About the ACMD
The Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery (ACMD) is a new collaborative biomedical engineering centre focused on accelerating the research, development and translation of medical technologies.
Located at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, the ACMD brings together clinicians, researchers, industry and universities to solve real-world health challenges. The centre supports innovation in MedTech, biotech, and digital health, with the goal of improving healthcare outcomes through research, collaboration and education.
The ACMD is a partnership between Australian Catholic University, the Bionics Institute, RMIT University, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, St Vincent’s Institute, Swinburne University of Technology, and the University of Melbourne.
The University of Melbourne is a key university partner, with the MDHS Clinical School, researchers and students working on-site to advance health innovation and translational research.
The purpose-built, 11-storey facility includes:
- Advanced 3D printing and prototyping labs
- Human movement and sensory technology spaces
- Clinical simulation and teaching facilities
- Shared meeting rooms and a large auditorium
- Informal collaboration spaces and breakout areas
The ACMD provides the infrastructure and collaborative environment needed to translate research into real-world medical solutions.
Current Researchers
The ACMD has reached practical completion, and preparations are underway to make the facility ready for occupancy. Researchers will move into the building in stages, with timelines and access details shared directly as they become available. This phased approach helps ensure a smooth transition and supports ongoing research planning.
Prospective Researchers (University of Melbourne staff only)
Keen for your biomedical technology research to make an impact? Apply for the next research intake at ACMD.
Application round dates:
The annual round of applications is now open for translational MedTech projects to join the ACMD community for Q1 2026. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a collaborative environment driving innovation in health and medical technologies.
Project leads must be University staff at Level B or above. Full details on eligibility and assessment criteria, and information about the centre and its facilities can be found on the Researcher Applicant FAQs and Application Form page.
Key Dates
- Applications due: 5pm 31 Friday October 2025
- Notification of outcomes: December 2025
- Relocation: Q1 2026
Contact for onboarding support: ACMD-Internal@unimelb.edu.au
Key Contacts
ACMD General Enquiries: ACMD-Internal@unimelb.edu.au
ACMD lab manager/BioFabLab contact:labs@acmd.org.au
IT/Facilities support info: contact@acmd.org.au
Auditorium Booking
The ACMD features a state-of-the-art auditorium with a capacity of over 150 people.
To book this space for your next event, email acmd-internal@unimelb.edu.au
Auditorium conditions of use: The University will have a time allocation for using the auditorium at the ACMD for MedTech related events. Please contact us for more information.