TYPE OF SUPPORT
Research Background
The Mallett group is a multidisciplinary team investigating new approaches and treatments for genetic kidney disease.
They have generated spatial transcriptomics datasets on clear cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC), Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), and kidney transplant rejection. To advance this work, the group required support in analysing these complex datasets, which was provided through a range of collaborative models.
Including student-led analysis with supervisory guidance, to fee-for-service consultations with bioinformaticians, and fully integrated bioinformatics roles embedded within research teams.
QCIF Role
Over a four-year period, an FTE embedded role provided ongoing bioinformatics support through various models of engagement.
In an “analysis hotel” style, PhD students performed the analysis while receiving supervisory guidance on bioinformatics pipelines, scientific rigour, and results interpretation.
A “fee-for-service” model enabled researchers to consult with QCIF bioinformaticians to scope projects, design analysis plans, and progress through regular meetings and results reviews.
Additionally, an integrated role placed a dedicated bioinformatician within the team, working closely alongside biological expert to drive collaborative analysis and research outcomes.
Research Outcome & Impact
This collaborative research initiative has led to significant academic and translational outcomes, including the awarding of two PhDs, the publication of eight peer-reviewed papers (six accepted and two in preparation), and successful award of four competitive grants, namely, the NHMRC Ideas Grant, Below the Belt Research Fund, 10X Genomics Oncology Fellowship, and the CDU Seed Grant.
These achievements reflect the impact and momentum generated through integrated bioinformatics support and cross-disciplinary collaboration
QCIF Bioinformatics provided invaluable, tailored support throughout my PhD, with a refreshingly collaborative approach that respected my limited coding background. Working directly with Nic Matigian was especially impactful, helping streamline complex analyses and strengthen the quality of my research. I highly recommend their dependable, collegial expertise.
Arti Raghubar, Genome Innovation Hub, University of Queensland
