The Wal-yan Respiratory Research Centre conducts research into a wide range of childhood respiratory disease areas, with a clear focus on:
- Asthma
- Cystic fibrosis
- Indigenous respiratory health issues
- Environmental factors affecting lung health
- Respiratory consequences of preterm birth
- Normal developmental trajectories of respiratory function and the immune system
Thanks to our world-class research platforms and international networks, we are equipped to respond in an agile fashion to emergent global issues affecting lung health — such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Read more about the BRACE trial.
In addition, we have groups studying allergy and infection, immunological defence, regenerative medicine, and rare paediatric conditions that affect respiratory health - such as neuromuscular dystrophy, and genetic disorders of surfactant metabolism.
We also have clinical teams that research sleep medicine and the psychosocial outcomes of respiratory complications.
Consumer and community involvement is critical in shaping our research. Each of the research areas has its own Consumer Reference Group and our consumer representatives are integral members of the Centre's Scientific Steering Committee.
Find out more about becoming a consumer voice that guides respiratory research.
Life Course Model of Translational Respiratory Research
Childhood respiratory disease is influenced by genetic and environmental factors that are present throughout all life stages, including in the womb.
To improve the early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of these conditions, it is critical to build a translational research model that studies the full life-course trajectory of childhood respiratory disease — from the antenatal and postnatal risk factors, through to the health burden in infancy and childhood, and the chronic health issues that persist into adulthood.
Considering these lifelong influences and ensuring early intervention underpins everything we do at the Wal-yan Respiratory Research Centre.
