Research Projects

Infectious diseases epidemiology is undergoing a paradigm shift, mainly due to the implementation of new technologies such as whole genome sequencing (WGS) of pathogens.  WGS is being introduced into public health settings in Australia and globally – however, there is currently no standard framework for assessing and quantifying the impact on public health outcomes (e.g. reduction in time to diagnosis; change in number of disease clusters, costs associated with diagnosis).  This project aims to establish an initial framework based on available data for assessing the impact of WGS on pre-specified public health outcomes, using tuberculosis as an exemplar.  The project will involve interaction with epidemiologists, laboratory staff and policy makers.  Project findings will guide best practice for translating genomic analyses into public health action.

This project would suit a student with analytic skills, familiarity with a statistical program (e.g. Stata), and an interest in infectious disease epidemiology and public health.