Bacterial and Parasitic Infections

Understanding how bacteria and parasites evolve (particularly in response to antimicrobial resistance) is central to our work. Researchers at the Doherty Institute study the genetic and molecular mechanisms that drive resistance, using advanced bioinformatics to track emerging threats. This research supports the development of surveillance systems and informs global strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance.  

By identifying resistance patterns and evolutionary pathways, our teams contribute to the design of next-generation antibiotics and stewardship programs. This work is critical to preserving the effectiveness of existing treatments and ensuring future preparedness.  

Our researchers investigate how bacterial and parasitic pathogens interact with the human immune system, from the initial stages of infection to chronic disease. This includes studying immune evasion strategies, inflammation, and the role of host genetics in susceptibility and disease progression. 

These insights help identify potential targets for vaccines and immunotherapies and deepen our understanding of how infections can lead to long-term health complications. The Doherty Institute’s immunology expertise is a key strength in this area. 

Timely and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment and control of infectious diseases. Researchers at the Doherty Institute are developing novel diagnostic tools that are faster, more sensitive, and suitable for use in low-resource settings. This includes molecular assays, point-of-care tests, and biomarker discovery. 

In parallel, we are identifying and testing new therapeutic agents, including antibiotics, anti-parasitic treatments, and host-directed therapies. Our translational research bridges the gap between laboratory findings and clinical application. 

Diseases like Buruli ulcer and strongyloidiasis are often overlooked in global health programs despite their significant impact on affected communities. The Doherty Institute is committed to addressing these neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) through research, advocacy, and partnerships with endemic countries. 

Our work includes field studies, diagnostic innovation, and capacity building to support local health systems. By shining a light on these under-researched conditions, we aim to reduce their burden and improve equity in global health. 

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases. At the Doherty Institute, TB research spans basic science, clinical trials, and public health. Scientists investigate Mycobacterium tuberculosis biology, drug resistance mechanisms, and host immune responses. 

We are also involved in evaluating new TB diagnostics, treatments, and vaccine candidates. Our collaborations with international partners help ensure that research findings translate into real-world impact, particularly in high-burden settings. 

The Victorian Tuberculosis Program provides statewide public health services aimed at preventing, detecting, treating, and curing TB, while also supporting patient education, medication access, contact tracing, workplace screening, and referrals to improve health outcomes across Victoria. 

These efforts contribute to national and global strategies aimed at eliminating TB through evidence-based interventions and innovation. 

Malaria research at the Doherty Institute focuses on understanding the biology of Plasmodium parasites, their transmission by mosquitoes, and the immune responses they elicit. This includes work on drug resistance, vaccine development, and vector control strategies. 

Our teams also study other vector-borne diseases, contributing to regional and global efforts to reduce transmission and improve disease management. Field-based research and partnerships with endemic countries are central to this work. 

Clinical trials are a vital part of our strategy to bring new diagnostics and treatments to patients. The Doherty Institute conducts investigator-led and collaborative trials across a range of bacterial and parasitic infections, often in partnership with hospitals and international research networks. 

These trials help validate laboratory discoveries and ensure that innovations are safe, effective, and accessible. Our translational research pipeline is designed to move promising ideas from bench to bedside as efficiently as possible. 

The Doherty Institute is deeply engaged in global health, working with partners in the Asia-Pacific and beyond to address the burden of bacterial and parasitic infections. Our public health experts contribute to disease surveillance, outbreak response, and health system strengthening. 

By integrating research with policy and practice, we aim to improve health outcomes at both the local and global levels. Our work supports the development of evidence-based strategies that are culturally appropriate and sustainable.