Research Centre Background

The partner organisations of OYH-RC are: Colonial Foundation, Melbourne Health and the University of Melbourne. 

 

OYH-RC is now regarded as Australia’s largest and premier youth mental health research institute, focusing on the full range of mental illnesses that impact on young people. OYH-RC research is recognised internationally and has influenced service delivery reform in many countries.

 

With 130 academic staff, including 6 full professors and 5 associate professors, and a pool of talented young emerging researchers, OYH-RC has gradually expanded its research capacity to include research into psychosis, depression, substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder and eating disorders. All of which are potentially serious mental health disorders with a peak onset in the 12-25 age group.

 

OYH-RC aims to understand the biological, psychological and social factors that influence onset, remission and relapse of mental illnesses in order to find better ways to prevent and/or reduce the impact of mental disorders. It conducts both basic neuroscience and clinical research.

 

OYH-RC is governed by a Board of Directors that brings together clinical, academic and corporate/philanthropic groups in close partnership.

 

The OYH-RC Research Committee (a Board sub-committee) assists in guiding, monitoring and approving the strategic direction of the program of research, and to ensure the program reflects a commitment to excellence in research. The Committee is chaired by Professor Fred Mendelsohn and has a membership of leading Australian academics and scientists. This committee provides a valuable forum for the senior academic staff of OYH-RC to consult with about new research initiatives and technical issues.