Support research

The University of Melbourne is a global leader in fighting infectious disease and advancing immunity research, with a proven record of translating discovery into public health impact.

Through major initiatives including the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, the Australian Institute for Infectious Disease and the Cumming Global Centre for Pandemic Therapeutics, we are advancing vaccine development, immune responses, early diagnostics and novel therapeutic strategies to respond to emerging infectious threats and future pandemics.

We are improving outcomes for people living with cancer and chronic disease through innovation, precision medicine and a commitment to equity in healthcare.

In partnership with leading institutions including the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, our Centre for Genomic Cancer Medicine is advancing personalised, genomics-based treatments that are transforming how cancer is diagnosed and treated. Across chronic conditions including stroke, epilepsy, diabetes and rare genetic disorders, we are improving diagnosis, targeted therapies and access to care.

We are also leading urgent research into complex conditions such as long COVID and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, using big data and advanced diagnostics to unlock new treatment pathways.

Neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s and Motor Neurone Disease are rising rapidly. In collaboration with the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, we are advancing research in AI-driven brain modelling, stem cell therapies, neural transplantation and precision medicine to improve diagnosis, treatment and care.

We are also responding to the growing mental health crisis, especially among young people. Through partnerships with leaders like Orygen and expertise in digital health, trauma, addiction, First Nations wellbeing and care for ageing populations, we are developing scalable mental health interventions.

We are committed to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through Indigenous-led research, education and healthcare innovation.

Programs such as the Indigenous Eye Health Unit have already achieved national impact, reducing rates of trachoma and improving access to eye care in remote communities.

This approach is also being applied to other urgent health challenges, including diabetes. MDHS is investing in the next generation of Indigenous health researchers through fellowships and leadership programs.

Through initiatives like the Melbourne Poche Centre for Indigenous Health and the Peeneeyt Thanampool Aunty Joan Vickery and Aunty Angela Clarke MDHS Indigenous Postdoctoral Fellowship, we are strengthening Indigenous voices in policy, research and care.

Our research is seeking to address a longstanding gap in women’s health.

Through leadership in research and clinical care, we are building a comprehensive, whole-of-life approach, led by women for women, that strengthens understanding, prevention and treatment from perinatal health to menopause.

With strong research expertise and a proven record of translating discovery into real world outcomes, philanthropic support can accelerate breakthroughs, expand proven interventions and improve health outcomes for women now and into the future.