Strengthening partnerships to build a cohesive pathogen genomics program across the Asia Pacific region for translational research, enhanced genomics-informed regional surveillance for infectious diseases, capacity building and training.
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Who we are
The Centre for Pathogen Genomics at the University of Melbourne (Doherty Institute) was established in 2022 as an academic and training hub to advance integrated pathogen genomics programs and create collaborative opportunities for translational research, genomics-informed regional infectious disease surveillance, capacity building and training.
Researchers and research associates of the Centre comprise of people working and interested in pathogen genomics from across the University of Melbourne, the Doherty Institute and Partners nationally and internationally. We are pathogen agnostic, and our research is focussed on using pathogen genomics to address five disciplines: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), Surveillance and Response, the Microbiome, One Health, and Pandemic Preparedness and Response.
How we work
The Centre is guided by principles that ensure our work is both impactful and equitable. Central to our approach is collaboration, which we see as essential for driving innovation and achieving meaningful results. We engage respectfully with Low- and Middle-Income Countries, focusing on knowledge transfer and capacity building to foster long-term, sustainable development.
Our commitment to democratising access to technology ensures that cutting-edge tools and resources are available to all, irrespective of geographic or economic barriers. We also prioritise Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, working to create an environment where varied perspectives are valued and integrated into our research.
Capacity Statement
Centre for Pathogen Genomics Inaugural Biennial Report 2024 - 2025
Our Objectives
Promote
Innovative research across infectious diseases
Develop
Advanced data analysis tools and approaches
Demonstrate
Utility for public health and clinical care
Strengthen
Collaboration among sectors and groups
Leverage
New and existing partnerships
Our Research Partners
Our Training and Capacity Building Partners
Acknowledgements
Executive Group
Centre Management
Research
Innovation Hub
Training Hub
Bioinformatics Hub
Our Strategy
The Centre for Pathogen Genomics Research Strategy 2024-2027 sets out our vision to become a leader in pathogen genomics research in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. This strategy articulates our commitment to innovative research, capacity building, and international collaboration to address the most challenging and significant infectious disease problems
Flagship Projects
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Australian Pathogen Genomics Program
AusPathoGen is a large scale integrated public health pathogen genomics research program funded by the Commonwealth Medical Research Future Fund as part of the Genomics Health Futures Mission to address the rise of infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance in Australia
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Metagenomics Platform
Metagenomic next-generation sequencing is a transformative approach used to detect and characterise all known pathogens in a single test. Funded by the Commonwealth Medical Future Fund Pathogen Genomics Flagship to develop and implement clinical metagenomic diagnostics for infectious diseases across Australia.
Our Research Themes
The Centre's nine key research themes encompass its work program, objectives, and provide a framework to support its research strategy, foster collaboration, and strengthen partnerships with the University, the Doherty Institute, and external partners in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.
Antimicrobial Resistance
Data Sharing, Governance & Legal Frameworks
Microbiome
Emerging and Neglected Infectious Diseases
Surveillance and Genomic Epidemiology
One Health
Evolutionary and Statistical Genomics
Genomic Diagnostics for Infectious Diseases
The Centre for Pathogen Genomics coordinates research and activities via a number of networks and programs.
Past Events
Centre for Pathogen Genomics Scholars Program
The Centre for Pathogen Genomics supports a vibrant and diverse community of Honours, Masters and PhD students working across pathogen genomics, infectious diseases, public health, bioinformatics and related disciplines.
The program is designed to complement formal degree training by providing students with opportunities to connect with the broader Centre community, engage with researchers and public health professionals, and build skills relevant to research, translation and future career pathways.
Through a mix of student-focused activities, mentoring opportunities, training and peer engagement, the program aims to foster a supportive and connected research environment for emerging pathogen genomics researchers. It reflects the Centre’s commitment to building future capability across pathogen genomics, public health and translational research.
What the program offers
Students affiliated with the Centre may have opportunities to participate in:
- research and career development activities
- informal mentoring and engagement with senior researchers
- peer networking and student cohort activities
- practical training aligned with Centre platforms, workflows and expertise
- writing, presentation and professional development sessions
- conference, workshop or research engagement opportunities, where available
Activities are delivered throughout the year and are designed to be flexible, inclusive and responsive to student interests and Centre priorities.
Building research capability and connection
The Scholars Program provides a forum for students to learn from peers, researchers, clinicians, bioinformaticians and public health practitioners working across the Centre’s research programs and partner networks.
Students are encouraged to engage with the Centre’s multidisciplinary environment, strengthen their understanding of pathogen genomics in practice, and develop the professional networks and capabilities needed to contribute to research and public health impact.
Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned professional, we have study options to suit your needs
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MicroCerts
Whatever your role or industry, upskilling is essential. Micro-credentials and short courses are designed to help busy professionals quickly gain specific knowledge, skills, and the capabilities employers need.
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Honours, Masters and PhD
The Doherty Institute offers many undergraduate, graduate and professional development opportunities, complementing its research themes and cross cutting disciplines