Research
In 1989, after gaining his doctorate, Robinson established the Molecular Genetics Unit, now known as the Cancer Genetics Unit, at the Kolling Institute of Medical Research in the Royal North Shore Hospital. He described this as "one of the most challenging phases of his career".
His research has primarily focused on identifying the genetic factors that contribute to tumour formation in endocrine glands, including the thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, and pituitary glands.
His research posts include:
Chair of the National Health and Medical Research Council, Australia’s peak advisory and funding body for medical research, from 2015 to 2021.
Chair of the Australian Government’s taskforce of expert clinicians charged with reviewing the Medicare Benefits Schedule, from 2015 to 2021.
Co-Head of the Cancer Genetics Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, ongoing.
Chair of Research at the Royal North Shore Hospital in the Northern Sydney Local Health District, since 2022.
Board Member of the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, since 2006.