Curtin University researchers will tackle global issues such as child and youth wellbeing, infectious diseases, mental health and long\u2011term disease prevention, after being awarded significant funding through the National Health and Medical Research Council\u2019s (NHMRC) 2026 Investigator Grants scheme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The program supports research aiming to improve health outcomes in Australia and around the world, with the five Curtin projects\u2019 $6.4 million in total funding further evidence of Curtin\u2019s strengthening reputation for high\u2011impact health and medical research.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Curtin Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Professor Melinda Fitzgerald<\/a> said the grants recognised both research excellence and real\u2011world relevance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThese Investigator Grants recognise the quality and leadership of Curtin\u2019s researchers and the importance of their work,\u201d Professor Fitzgerald said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe funded projects focus on some of the most significant health challenges facing our communities, from chronic disease and mental health to emerging global health threats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThis research will help shape better healthcare, inform policy and improve lives locally and internationally.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Curtin University NHMRC 2026 Investigator Grant projects<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Associate Professor Shannon Simpson<\/strong><\/a>, Curtin School of Allied Health and The Kids Research Institute Australia<\/strong> Associate Professor Kefyalew Alene<\/strong><\/a>, School of Population Health and The Kids Research Institute Australia<\/strong> Dr Richard Lee, Curtin Medical School and The Kids Research Institute Australia<\/strong>
Improving the lifelong lung health of infants born prematurely<\/em>
Associate Professor Simpson\u2019s research looks at why many people born prematurely develop long\u2011term lung problems. By tracking lung health over time and testing early treatments, the project aims to improve breathing health from infancy through adulthood and reduce chronic lung disease later in life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Geospatial analytics to accelerate global tuberculosis elimination efforts<\/em>
Associate Professor Alene\u2019s project uses mapping and data analysis to better understand where tuberculosis (TB) is most common and where drug\u2011resistant TB is emerging. The research will help governments and health agencies target resources more effectively and strengthen efforts to reduce TB worldwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ether lipids for treating mitochondrial disease<\/em>
Dr Lee\u2019s research explores a new way to treat mitochondrial diseases, which are serious genetic conditions with no current cure. The project aims to test whether restoring certain fats in cells can improve how mitochondria work and lead to future treatments for affected children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n