Department of Epidemiology & Population Health

The broad research areas within the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health are identification of the determinants of ill health and evaluation of interventions to improve global health and reduce the burden of disease. Our aim is to conduct research which is methodologically innovative and which provides reliable information for evidence-based decision making in public health. There is a strong emphasis on the translation of findings into programme action and health policy. The Department is multidisciplinary and encompasses epidemiologists, medical statisticians, medical demographers, nutritionists, social scientists and public health practitioners.

There is considerable expertise in the analysis of routinely collected data, the conduct and analysis of observational studies, clinical trials, large-scale field studies, the design and evaluation of interventions and biostatistical and demographic methodology. Many programmes involve collaboration between units within the School, and with collaborating researchers throughout the world. Much of the research involves current PhD students, and within the large range of interests represented in the Department there is the potential to accommodate and to identify research expertise in most aspects of epidemiology and population health for DrPH and PhD studies.

The wide range of scientific interests and the geographic diversity of the research projects offer a unique opportunity for prospective research students to participate in the work of a dynamic and stimulating group of internationally renowned researchers. Research students become members of one of the five Research Units, participating in the full range of the Unit's academic and social activities. Students are allocated a supervisor, and hence a Research Unit, based on their research interests and disciplinary area. A comprehensive research skills training programme is provided. Meetings and social events are organised at intervals throughout the year to encourage students to get to know each other and to develop a supportive environment.

The work of the department and therefore the opportunities for training, is detailed under each unit.