GSK's involvement with the Australian research and development community starts very early in the drug discovery process.

We are collaborating with more than 20 institutions Australia-wide, working on genetic and biochemical research projects. Some of our research aims to further increase our understanding of current GSK medicines and other research is targeted at finding new medicines. Phase I clinical trials, in which new medicines are administered to humans for the first time, are a crucial step in developing new medicines.

The GlaxoSmithKline Medicines Research Unit was established in 1998 at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sydney, enabling GSK to conduct early clinical trials (phase 1 and 2) with healthy volunteers and small patient groups in Australia. The Unit is one of three Phase 1 facilities the company supports world wide.

Phase 2, 3 and 4 trials are designed to increase our understanding of the medicines we develop and how they should best be used. At any one time, GSK is conducting approximately 80 clinical trials in Australia involving approximately 250 investigating clinicians and 10,000 patients. These projects attract top scientists to Australia, create local employment, and enhance the nation's teaching and research capabilities.