Research excellence

From the world’s foremost researchers in medicine and health to our students, staff and industry partners, we're proud of our positive impact on healthcare in Australia and beyond.

Personalise

Our research excellence is driven by taking unique approaches to the most complex problems in medicine and health. This is reflected in UNSW Medicine & Health research themes, which are built around our strengths.

While our scope is broad, we target critical areas where we can continue to deliver innovation, directly change health policy and practice, and meaningfully improve health and wellbeing. This includes preventing youth suicide, identifying the gene mutations that cause birth defects, developing new cancer therapies, reducing stroke mortality, improving the lives of those with hepatitis C, and planning for a COVID-19 future.

Cancer

Our research benefits people at all stages of their cancer experience – from prevention and treatment to survivorship support, and palliation. Our vision is to improve the lives of all people impacted by cancer by delivering evidence-based practice in diagnosis, intervention and support.

Infectious disease, immunity & inflammation

Our research improves the interventions and treatments of disease and infection. We cover all aspects of research from fundamental biology and pathology to epidemiological studies and population health. Our vision encompasses a world where human health is enriched by controlling infection, enhancing immunity and managing inflammation.

Neuroscience, mental health & addiction

Our research prevents, treats, and cures brain and nerve disorders. We improve mental health and addiction outcomes for our patient communities through our care and strong relationships. By building communities free from the burden of brain disorders, we can achieve our vision for better health and better lives.

Cardiac, vascular & metabolic medicine

Our research in cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndromes focuses on early detection, and prevention. Heart disease and stroke, together with complications from kidney disease and diabetes, are the major causes of death and disability in Australia. Our vision is to deepen our understanding and ease the significant burden of these diseases.

Health Systems Research

Our vision is to develop and implement high-quality, person-centred health systems research that will improve individual and population health and well-being for Australians and the global community.

Theme Collaborative Seed Grant Initiatives

Our Theme Collaborative Seed Grant Schemes provide Early and Mid-Career Researchers (EMCRs) at UNSW opportunities to lead innovative projects. Funded by UNSW Medicine & Health, our grants foster cross-disciplinary collaborations to produce high-quality research and clinical outcomes.