Since its inception, more than 400 studies have been initiated using the ATR, and each year over the last decade about 10 new studies commenced. Currently there are more than 50 active studies recruiting or collecting data, including several major long-term programs. As demonstrated by the examples below, the ATR is used for a wide variety of scientific purposes, including:

• classic biometrical twin and twin family studies
• co-twin control studies
• intervention studies
• longitudinal studies
• studies of issues relevant specifically to twins

The Australian Twin Registry (ATR) Study Index is a searchable list of all research projects previously facilitated by the ATR. It contains meta-data about ATR-enabled studies such as title, lead researcher/s, institution, dates, types of twins approached (i.e. zygosity/sex combinations), any tests or measures performed, and the publications arising from a study.

The ATR plays an active role in training its users. Advice is readily available to prospective new researchers and the application review process provides constructive criticism from the Director and/or other experienced twin researchers. The ATR has been running national workshops since 1988 to help train researchers in twin study methodology and the practical aspects of conducting twin studies. The latest twin research workshop organized by the ATR in 2011 was entitled "Research Involving Twins: an invaluable component of a medical researcher's repertoire".

To expand training opportunities, the ATR has allocated funds to an Annual Research Travel Grant Scheme (see below) to support attendance of young researchers at workshops, conferences and relevant courses.

ATR Travel Grant – Open for Application

The deadline for  Round 9 of our  travel grants for researchers is Wednesday February 29th 2012, with the announcement of successful candidates occurring in mid-March. We would like to encourage researchers interested in attending the International Congress on Twin Studies in Florence (April 1^st – 4^th 2012) to apply for this round. Please contact Nilmini Jayasuriya on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 03 9035 6437.

 Two rounds of application are announced each year, in February and August, until July 2014. The ATR Research Travel Grant Scheme aims to:

1. Facilitate the training and development of Australian researchers in the methodology and practice of studies involving twins by offering financial support to attend relevant international research workshops and conferences
2. Help foster an active network of researchers from a range of disciplines
3. Promote the presentation of ATR studies at scientific conferences