Institute Themes & Cross-Cutting Disciplines

Overview

The Doherty Institute is structured around four Themes and seven Cross-Cutting Disciplines.

This structure is designed to harness internal collaboration, build critical mass around key topics and display Institute strengths to an external audience. The Themes capture the major Institute approaches to addressing fundamental challenges in infection and immunity, whereas the Cross-Cutting Disciplines represent the core capacities and platforms by which we support and contribute towards the Thematic areas. This structure is intended to be inclusive and recognises that many will work across these areas.

Themes

Immunology

Immunology is the science of understanding how the body defends itself, exploring the intricate systems that protect us from infections, diseases and cancer.

Viral Infectious Diseases

Viruses are micro-organisms that enter cells in the body and reproduce, causing a viral infection. Their ability to hide in cells makes them very difficult for the immune system to fight.

Antimicrobial Resistance

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to the medicines designed to treat them.

Bacterial and Parasitic Infections

Bacterial infections are caused by harmful bacteria (microscopic single-celled organisms) that invade the body, multiply and trigger immune responses. These infections can range from mild to life-threatening.

Cross-Cutting Disciplines

Amy Chung Immunologist working in the laboratory at the Doherty Institute

Discovery Research

Discovery Research refers to fundamental scientific inquiry that seeks to understand the mechanisms of infection and immunity at their most basic levels.

Vaccine trial participant on site in Royal Melbourne Hospital

Clinical and Health Systems Research

Clinical research involves studying health and disease in people to develop new treatments, improve existing ones, and enhance patient outcomes.

Global Health

The Doherty Institute aims to improve health systems and outcomes in the region and across the world, through our Global Health cross-cutting discipline.

Group of students working in the practical laboratory at the Doherty Institute

Education and Professional Development

The Doherty Institute provides a world-class academic and professional environment for those pursuing careers in biomedical science and public health.