Why older Australians are vital to medical research

In June, Nucleus Network was proud to join National Seniors Australia (NSA) at the Everald Compton Community Champion Medal event, celebrating the many ways older Australians enrich their communities. 

Nucleus Networks sees that contribution firsthand through the vital role seniors play in advancing medical research.  

Why volunteers aged 65+ are urgently needed for medical research 

Older Australians are among the most frequent users of medicines, yet they have historically been underrepresented in clinical trials. That’s a problem, and you could help solve it.  

Greater participation in medical research helps researchers better understand how treatments perform in an ageing population, how medicines interact, and how therapies can be optimised for the people who use them most. 

Including participants aged 65 and over leads to better data, safer medicines and treatments that more accurately reflect how Australians live and age.  

Everald Compton and Chris Grice visit Nucleus Network

Nucleus Network’s work focuses on the earliest steps in medical research that evolve into treatments that lead to more good years of life for all Australians. 

To witness firsthand where this research happens, Nucleus Network was delighted to host NSA CEO, Chris Grice, and Adjunct Professor Everald Compton, among other distinguished guests, at its Brisbane clinical trials unit.  

The visit provided an opportunity to meet the doctors, nurses and study teams and, most importantly, the participants who generously volunteer their time to help advance future treatments. 

Every clinical trial begins with people willing to take part today so that tomorrow's patients may benefit.

Nucleus Network is expanding to Sydney, creating more opportunity for seniors to contribute to medical research  

Founded in Australia 32 years ago, Nucleus Network has grown to become the world's only global early-phase clinical trial specialist, with operations across Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. 

Over that time, its early-phase research has contributed to the development of more than 100 new medicines.  

In August, Nucleus Network is excited to be expanding its Australian network, with the opening of a new clinic in Sydney, joining existing sites in Melbourne and Brisbane. 

Located in the North Shore Health Hub, part of the world-class Royal North Shore Hospital campus, the Sydney clinic has been purpose-built with participant comfort, safety, and care at its centre.

Could participating be right for you? 

For many Australians, retirement creates opportunities to explore new interests and find meaningful ways to contribute. 

Participating in medical research can offer a sense of purpose, connection, and the knowledge that your involvement could help future generations, including your own family and loved ones. 

Many people are also surprised to learn that clinical trial participants are reimbursed for their time and commitment. This reimbursement recognises the contribution participants make and can provide practical support for those living on a fixed income or pension. 

Most importantly, taking part could help advance research that benefits people around the world. 

If you’d like to learn more, it starts with a simple conversation. 

To learn more, click here.