We collaborate with local and international industry, community and other university groups to address critical public health issues and deliver innovative programs that transform lives.

Our research

Our research emphasises the complex interactions between individuals, social and physical aspects of their communities and health care systems.

Behaviour, Environment and Cognition Research Program

Bone Health and Fractures Research Program

Exercise and Nutrition Research Program

Exercise Oncology

Our people

Our team of award winning, world-class researchers bring together their diverse strengths to tackle today’s most pressing health challenges.

Meet our people

Join us

We welcome aspiring health service researchers to undertake projects alongside leading international academics

Study with us

Featured projects

MMIHR project - exercise therapy

Exercise therapy

Men with prostate cancer experience increased rates of mental health issues. This project examines whether exercise aids the management of mental health issues in men with cancer.

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Built environment and physical activity

We’re supporting the International Physical Activity and the Environment Network (IPEN) Adolescent study, which explores how the built environment affects physical activity and obesity in teenagers.

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Greenery and mental health

Mental health issues are common in residential aged care facilities. This project investigates whether exposing new residents to greenery may protect them against declining wellbeing.

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MMIHR research - epigenetic control

Epigenetic control and the circadian clock

We are collaborating with the University of Copenhagen, Karolinska Institute and the University of Carolina to further understand the benefits of exercise for people with type 2 diabetes.

Explore project

News and events

Imre Kouw wins British Nutrition Foundation’s early career scientist award

1 May 2020

ACU researcher Imre Kouw has received the British Nutrition Foundation's prestigious 2020 BNF Drummond Early Career Scientist Award which recognises early career excellence in nutrition science.

Year 12 students can take charge of their post-pandemic future

29 April 2020

Year 12 students can turn the COVID-19 pandemic disruption in their favour by applying for direct entry into an Australian Catholic University business degree.

New research centres

20 April 2020

Seven new research centres will enhance ACU’s reputation in the arts, education, health, and theology and philosophy.

Exercise boosts gut health to build muscles and endurance

5 February 2020

Regular exercise changes the composition of the gut bacteria and may play a crucial role in skeletal muscle function and endurance.

Keto diet may harm bone health in athletes

4 February 2020

Endurance athletes on a low-carbohydrate, high-fat or keto diet for its alleged benefits to performance may be sacrificing their bone health.

Living near green space can help you live longer

6 December 2019

It's no secret that being in nature is good for your health. Something as simple as a walk in the park can boost well-being and deliver benefits ranging from better sleep to lower stress.

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Get in touch

Level 5, 215 Spring Street,
Melbourne, VIC, 3000

Connect with us

Chat with our team via social media.

Call (03) 9230 8110
Email mackillopinstitute@acu.edu.au