Research
Sexual health research plays a critical role in improving individual and public health outcomes. As patterns of infectious disease, antimicrobial resistance, sexual behaviour and healthcare access continue to evolve, research is essential to developing more effective approaches to prevention, diagnosis, treatment and health promotion.
Melbourne Sexual Health Centre researchers investigate a broad range of issues affecting sexual and reproductive health, including sexually transmitted infections, HIV, antimicrobial resistance, disease prevention, epidemiology, implementation science, health equity, and healthcare delivery. Our work spans laboratory, clinical, behavioural and population health research, generating evidence that informs policy, practice and public health responses in Australia and internationally.
Our research has substantial national and international impact, through leading journals such as the New England Journal of Medicine, and The Lancet and Nature families of journals. Our work has informed multiple World Health Organisation and international guidelines recommendations and advanced key areas including syphilis control, HIV and other sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention, bacterial vaginosis management, human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and antimicrobial resistance, AI-driven diagnostics and health economics.
A defining strength of our research is its translational focus. By bringing together clinician-researchers, scientists, epidemiologists, public health experts, community partners and consumers, we accelerate the translation of new knowledge into real-world impact. Our research contributes to the development of innovative diagnostics, treatments, prevention strategies and models of care that improve health outcomes for diverse communities.
We are committed to advancing the field through scientific excellence, collaboration and the training of future research leaders. Through strong partnerships across Monash University, healthcare organisations, government and community sectors, we foster an environment where curiosity, innovation and multidisciplinary research drive discoveries that improve sexual health and wellbeing locally and globally.
