Meet three scientists helping shape the next chapter of research at AIBN

Research leadership doesn’t happen overnight. It takes bold ideas, persistence and the opportunity to build a team and pursue a research vision independently.

At AIBN, we’re committed to creating those opportunities for the next generation of research leaders.

As part of this commitment, three exceptional researchers have recently been appointed as AIBN Group Leaders, bringing their fresh ideas and areas of expertise to the Institute.

Learn more about our three new group leaders below.

Dr Zeinab Khalil: Discovery in full BLOOM

Dr Zeinab Khalil is an ARC Future Fellow and internationally recognised expert in microbial natural product discovery, medicinal chemistry and metabolomics.

Dr Khalil is leading the BLOOM (Biosustainable Life Out of Microbes) research program, exploring how microbes can help restore soils and support more sustainable food production.

You can read more about Dr Khalil's work here

Dr Peng Chen: Powering a safer solar future

Dr Peng Chen, who also holds a joint appointment with UQ's School of Chemical Engineering, has already helped achieve a world record for eco-friendly solar cell efficiency.

As a Group Leader, Dr Peng will continue advancing wearable technologies with the potential to improve healthcare and everyday life.

You can read more about Dr Chen's work here

Dr Richard Lobb: Improving lives through health translation 

Dr Richard Lobb will strengthen our personalised medicine capability by developing new ways to detect, monitor and treat complex diseases using tiny biological messengers called extracellular vesicles.

Dr Lobb's work explores the underlying mechanisms behind diseases to inform the development of new diagnostics and treatment approaches.

Read more about Dr Lobb's glioblastoma diagnostic device here

Together, these appointments reflect AIBN’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of research leaders and creating space for new ideas to flourish. With their diverse expertise, ambitious research programs and collaborative approach, supported by AIBN's world-class infrastructure and collaborative culture, these three will help drive the Institute’s research forward in the years ahead.