Research
Research is critical for providing the evidence base for improved global health.There is a need to identify better ways of applying what is already known, and a key goal of the Nossal Institute is to conduct quantitative and qualitative research to strengthen development programs with relevant evidence, recognising that advances in global health needs input not only from traditional biomedical research, but also from social sciences, law, arts, and public policy.
There is also a need to fill gaps in knowledge with innovative research - from basic science at the laboratory bench, to population health and public policy; and to translate these findings to improved health for all.
The Nossal Institute looks for opportunities to work with partners in "co-creation of knowledge" that builds capacity in partner institutions and facilitates implementation through ongoing collaboration.
The Nossal Institute builds on the research strengths of the University and Australian partners to address problems of global significance. A university provides a unique environment for bringing together strong multi-disciplinary teams to tackle complex problems from a range of perspectives. Social scientists help investigate barriers to the introduction of tobacco control and harm reduction policies for prevention of HIV; biomedical teams tackle problems in malaria; and cross-disciplinary partnerships yield new applications of low-cost technology for health.
Evidence-based development practice and program analysis are essential for effective health planning and sustainable outcomes. The Nossal Institute's technical expertise includes rapid assessments, situation analyses and program evaluation, training in research methods; and planning, monitoring and evaluation of public health interventions. Staff, students and associates conduct international public health research with the objective of contributing innovative solutions to influence health policy and planning in local settings.
The Nossal Institute's greatest contribution will come from the people it trains to lead future global health improvements. The Institute aims to support and assist the large number of students and researchers at the University of Melbourne from a full range of disciplines who specialise in Global Health.