Australian Human Microbiome Biobank · QUT, Brisbane
Expanding our access to the human microbiome
A world-class collection of authenticated human microbial isolates, operated by specialist microbiologists at the Centre for Microbiome Research, Queensland University of Technology.
About AHMB
A national resource for microbiome science
The Australian Human Microbiome Biobank is a purpose-built repository of authenticated, characterised microbial isolates derived from the human gut, skin, oral cavity and vaginal microbiome. Operated by the Centre for Microbiome Research (CMR) at Queensland University of Technology, AHMB is designed to support the full spectrum of microbiome research, from fundamental discovery science through to the development of novel diagnostics, therapeutics and live biotherapeutic products.
Each isolate in the collection is derived from ethically consented donors, characterised using whole genome sequencing and preserved under validated long-term storage conditions, providing researchers and industry partners with access to biological materials of the highest scientific quality.
Learn more about AHMB
Simple access pathway
How access works
The AHMB collection is available now to researchers who enquire directly. Familiarise yourself with the process before applying.
Step 1
Browse the catalogue
Search isolates by body site, organism type or accession number. Filter by availability and characterisation data.
Catalogue coming June 2026Step 2
Submit an application
Complete the Isolate Access Application Form with your contact details and a description of your proposed research.
Step 3
Eligibility review
Applications are assessed within 5 business days. We guide you through the Material Transfer Agreement process.
Step 4
Receive your isolates
Cryopreserved, quality-controlled and packaged in Brisbane, ready to be couriered to your lab worldwide.
Get early access when the catalogue launches
Register your interest and we'll notify you the moment the AHMB catalogue is open for access applications. Early registrants receive priority review.
Fee-for-Service
High-Throughput Cultivation Platform
Submit your own samples and receive authenticated, fully characterised bacterial isolates and comprehensive genomic data, without the need for specialised in-house cultivation infrastructure.
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Most sample types accepted
Gut, skin, oral, vaginal, environmental and non-human matrices accepted, subject to feasibility assessment.
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Full genomic characterisation
Whole genome sequencing and taxonomic data delivered alongside every isolate, ready for downstream analysis.
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Authenticated, quality-controlled isolates
Every isolate is validated under rigorous laboratory standards before delivery to your facility.
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No infrastructure required
Access specialist anaerobic cultivation expertise without establishing or maintaining your own platform.
Our origin story
A collection built by the community, for science
Every isolate in the AHMB collection originates from a member of the Australian public who has donated a sample. The contribution of our donor community underpins the breadth and diversity of the collection, enabling research that would not otherwise be possible. We sincerely thank our donors for making this work possible.
Visit the Donor Hub →Partners & collaborators
