CIPPS

The ARC Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science (CIPPS) is a national research centre funded by the Australian Research Council. Bringing together Australian institutions, international collaborators and industry partners, CIPPS investigates peptides and proteins and their potential to address challenges in health, agriculture and industry. Its research explores distinctive molecules from Australia’s plants and animals, examines their biological functions, and develops approaches to engineer peptides and proteins for practical applications.

CIPPS organises its work across three research flagships: discovering and studying Australia’s peptide diversity; programming peptides for improved bioavailability and targeted localisation; and creating biological and synthetic technologies for peptide and protein engineering. A central challenge is enabling peptides to be taken orally and delivered to specific locations, including inside cells. The centre also develops labels and probes to study cell membranes and molecular interactions.

Alongside research and collaboration opportunities, CIPPS offers education, training and outreach, including a Summer School in Peptide Science.