One of Australia's leading medical research centres has launched an independent investigation into its governance and culture after discovering one of its top professors allegedly fabricated research data.

Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) Berghofer has commissioned former Federal Court Judge Bruce Lander QC to investigate conduct within its research facility.

The investigation comes after a recent external inquiry found Professor Mark Smyth fabricated research data that was used to support grant funding applications and clinical trials.

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It also found he "seriously breached" codes relating to the responsible conduct of research and the use of animals in research.

The initial findings on Professor Smyth have been handed to the Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC), pending the new investigation.

The institute would not elaborate on the details of the projects at the centre of Professor Smyth's work but in a statement said there was "no indication that participant safety has been compromised".

It is now in the process of reviewing any clinical trials associated with him and is also refunding or relinquishing any grant funding linked to his projects.

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Professor Smyth worked with Qimr Berghofer since 2013 but it is understood he is no longer affiliated with the centre.

His career in medical research spans more than 30 years in areas of cancer immunology.

The institute's Council Chairman Professor Arun Sharma said the findings from both reports would be the "catalyst for comprehensive new research integrity and cultural processes".

"We are committed to identifying and correcting the activities which led to research misconduct not being identified and prevented at an earlier stage," Professor Sharma said.

"Council has already signed off on a robust new Research Integrity Framework which will seek to ensure QIMR Berghofer has the most stringent integrity protocols in the country and address any shortcoming on behalf of the Institute in relation to these unacceptable breaches."

Health Minister Yvette D'Ath said she hoped the findings did not tarnish the centre's world-renowned reputation.

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"It shouldn't be seen as a reflection of the work that QIMR does. They do incredible work, important work," she said.

"If this individual is found to have done wrong, he will be held accountable for it, but I don't want to pre-empt what comes out of the CCC.

"We know no business, private or public, is immune to an individual doing wrong things."

The new investigation is likely to report back within six months.

Nine News has attempted to contact Professor Smyth for comment.