Heart attacks, stroke and thrombosis are debilitating and deadly: cardiovascular disease is still the leading cause of death in Australia, accounting for 38% of all deaths. Our research approaches cardiovascular research on many fronts that reflect the urgency and complexity of this problem.
From approaches that draw on a variety of factors contributing to cardiovascular disease ─ modern lifestyles, endocrinological, functional and genetic factors ─ our researchers and their colleagues have contributed significantly to a far greater understanding within the community of the means to minimise cardiovascular risk. They work in areas that seek to pinpoint populations at greater risk of the disease, develop genetically modified animal models that have revolutionised our capacity to understand the causes and consequences of disease, and contribute to the development of new treatments. They also measure the short and long-term effectiveness of surgical or pharmacological interventions for those who already have the disease. In addressing these complex issues they do not operate in isolation, however, as they recognise that strong collaborative links with major partners in Australia and internationally are vital in gaining the most effective outcomes to our research.
An example of our continually developing collaborative links is the proposed Global Medical Excellence Cluster which will connect Melbourne with London in a major international linkage across several biomedical themes including cardiovascular. Top researchers from each location will synergise in a major push to further the development of personalised medicine in a cardiovascular context.
Interested in Cardiovascular research studies? Contact us.
For general information about research higher degrees, including the application process, visit the faculty's Research Higher Degrees website.