News from the Department of Infectious Diseases

Since starting as Head of the Department of Infectious Diseases, I have been deeply encouraged by our Department’s breadth, depth and desire for collaborative research.

Pictured: Professor Jason Trubiano

Infectious Diseases in the Melbourne Medical School spans laboratory basic science and translational research, clinical studies, health services research and public health, with each area contributing to our ultimate goal of improving infectious diseases health outcomes.

One of the greatest strengths is our vibrant community of early- and mid-career researchers. Their dedication, fresh ideas, and adaptability are helping drive research that matters — whether at the level of patients in hospitals, public health policy, or prevention and control across communities. It’s inspiring to see how many projects have real translational potential.

Collaboration has been central to everything so far. The Department’s structure is geared toward working with allied disciplines, and within the broader Melbourne Medical School there are strong links that enrich studies and shared initiatives. The interdisciplinary environment helps us to tackle infectious diseases from multiple angles, combining lab work, clinical insights, health system research, and outreach.

We’ve already had some terrific highlights: our Department Planning Day, which sharpened our shared vision and priorities; major successes in securing NHMRC, MRFF and NIH grants, launch of the Clinical Trials Support Unit (CTSU), enabling us to move forward; and the pleasure of seeing our research presented at key international forums.

Looking ahead, I’m excited for the continued growth of our translational work, for fostering even more mentorship and support for emerging researchers, and for strengthening our partnerships both within MMS and with external health, policy, and community stakeholders. The potential here is significant — for patients, for public health, and for science.