At The George Institute, our areas of research address some of the world’s biggest health challenges, focusing on areas like women’s health, planetary health, and food policy. Each program is designed to tackle specific health concerns through targeted research initiatives that aim to improve prevention, detection, and care. By focusing on these key areas, we work to deliver practical solutions that enhance health outcomes globally. Brain healthAdvancing research to prevent, detect, and manage brain-related diseases, improving care and quality of life for people globally. Learn more CancerEnsuring everyone globally has the opportunity to fight cancer by actively working to remove barriers and create sustainable solutions. Learn more Cardiovascular healthTargeting the primary risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking. Learn more Critical careResearch focused on every aspect of critical illness manag

What are clinical trials? Clinical trials are research studies with humans, designed to test new treatments to find better ways to prevent, detect or treat disease1. Clinical trials are also sometimes referred to as interventional trials. The sorts of treatments being investigated include medicines or drugs, cells and other biological products, surgical procedures, radiologic procedures, devices, behavioural treatments, process-of-care changes, preventive care, and other items.2 Clinical trials rely on having members of the general public agree to take part. What happens in a clinical trial? In a clinical trial, participants meet with researchers who go through what the clinical trial will involve. All participants must be advised about the objectives of the research, what is expected of them, as well as any risks that may be experienced during and after the trial. Trials must follow a carefully controlled protocol, which is a plan that describes what researchers will do in the stu

Researchers at The George Institute for Global Health, UK, led by Executive Director Professor Otavio Berwanger, are spearheading a programme of work to transform that way we deliver large-scale clinical trials. This programme is borne out of a recognition of the limitations of the ‘traditional’ clinical trial model – and the health gains (social, environmental and economic) – to be had in investigating pragmatic, innovative and efficient approaches. In both the so-called ‘traditional’ and innovative trial models, the gold standard of randomisation controls for both known and unknown confounding factors that could influence trials outcomes, and represents the optimal method to work out whether a healthcare intervention reduces the risk of patient-important outcomes and so inform clinical practice. Where the two models differ is that the traditional approach requires participants be screened and recruited in a trial site by a team of investigators, and so demands both a

The George Institute's Board of Directors provides the leadership and expertise needed to guide our mission forward. With deep experience across health, research, and governance, they are dedicated to advancing global health equity through strategic initiatives and innovative programs. Their vision and commitment ensure we continue to make a meaningful, lasting impact on millions of lives worldwide. our board of directors Our peopleMeet the people driving global health change at The George Institute who are shaping impactful solutions for a healthier world. Learn more about our people

We believe that strong policies are essential for ethical and effective operations, particularly in health initiatives. Each policy reflects our commitment to safeguarding those we work with, promoting sustainability, and upholding our core values. These guidelines ensure that every action we take fosters trust, safety, and positive change. DisclaimerLearn about the terms of use for our website, including how we handle copyright, user-generated content, and third-party links, as well as our liability policies.Learn more Data sharing policyFind out how we responsibly share research data, including access requirements, privacy protection measures, and collaboration guidelines.Learn more Modern slavery statementSee how we prevent modern slavery across our operations and supply chains through strict due diligence, training, and ongoing risk assessments.Learn more PHS awards financial COI policyLearn how we manage and disclose financial conflicts in PHS-funded research to

We work with civil society groups and networks at local, regional and global levels, sharing evidence and identifying opportunities to influence health-related decisions. Our collective advocacy aims to build momentum and drive changes that reduce inequities and improve the health of millions of people worldwide. Action for Global Health UKLearn moreMore info about Action for Global Health UKAction for Global Health (AfGH) is a network of over 50 organizations working in global health. They connect members with key decision-makers, provide opportunities for joint advocacy and campaigning, and foster a collaborative community to drive progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being).Visit the website UK Working Group on NCDsLearn moreMore info about UK Working Group on NCDsThe UK Working Group on NCDs is a coalition of over 20 UK-based civil society organizations focused on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) as a critical international development issue. Their

The food on our plates can be a matter of life and death. Poor diet and excessive salt consumption are fuelling an epidemic of chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. These silent contributors to the global health crisis disproportionately impact marginalised communities and place immense strain on healthcare systems worldwide. A revolution in food production and consumption is urgently needed, and The George Institute and The Ian Potter Foundation are joining forces to drive this change. Through two powerful grant investments totalling AUD $1.2 million, The Ian Potter Foundation is empowering The George Institute to turn bold ideas into transformative solutions. Its support is advancing two pioneering initiatives focused on reducing sodium consumption and using food as medicine. Switching the world’s salt supply to save millions of lives Excess sodium is a hidden health risk, with the average daily intake in Australia nearly double t

Across Australia, many people struggle to access quality healthcare for mental health support and treatment for chronic conditions. Geographic isolation, limited resources, and systemic inequities are just some of the factors contributing to these gaps. To address these challenges and create lasting change, affordable and scalable solutions are urgently needed. Soul Patts, one of Australia’s most respected investment companies, is partnering with The George Institute to support cutting-edge tech startups that are driving solutions for unmet medical needs. This partnership goes beyond financial investment, combining long-term funding with strategic guidance to create meaningful and sustainable impact. By offering pro bono expertise in areas such as strategy, financial management, recruitment, and legal support, Soul Patts is helping startups address skill gaps and accelerate their growth. This dual investment will help these startups scale their operations and deliver sustainable impact

Working together with consumers and community members helps the Institute achieve high-quality research that has the greatest impact on the health and wellbeing of Australian people. The Institute is guided by the work of peak bodies such as the National Health and Medical Research Council and Consumers Health Forum of Australia. When using the term ‘consumer’, we are referring to patients and potential patients, people who use health care services, and their carers or family members. When we use the term ‘community members’ we refer to those who share an interest in our research – including sub-groups of the Australian population, and healthy members of our community who want to prevent ill-health. Below are key ways that consumers are involved in health research. Consumer and Community Advisory CommitteeThe CCAC oversees consumer involvement at the Institute. The committee works with key staff, including the Executive team and research program leads

Our donors make our most transformational work possible What begins at The George Institute as a bold idea for everyone to live a healthy life whatever their circumstance. Since our inception, private and corporate support has helped The George Institute extend its reach beyond the limitations of short-term, project-based funding. Our research concerns people, families, and communities of all shapes, sizes, and cultures. We don’t study cells or animals; we work with people across society to find solutions to the biggest health challenges. We look beyond single diseases across the life course to identify patient-centered approaches that can be implemented at scale to make a real difference, especially to those facing the most barriers. The belief in the power of an idea has meant evidence has become solutions, and people in the real world - people you might know and love - have been able to live longer, healthier lives. Our donors are critical to the impact we can h

Professors Robyn Norton AO and Stephen MacMahon AO, co-founders of The George Institute for Global Health, have spent their lives addressing some of the world’s most urgent health challenges. Through decades of groundbreaking research and visionary leadership, they have championed scalable solutions that have inspired a global movement for health equity. Now, in an extraordinary act of generosity, Robyn and Stephen are giving back to the organisation they built, pledging AUD $1 million to advance two critical areas of women’s health equity. This gift, combined with a matching contribution from The George Institute, creates a total pool of AUD $2 million. This funding has enabled the establishment of the Founders’ Fund, empowering some of the organisation’s most talented people and partners to unite in advancing this vital mission. Professors Robyn Norton AO and Stephen MacMahon AO, co-founders of The George Institute Advancing sex and gender equity in health To