Oxford named best university in the world for a record tenth consecutive year
10 October 2025
Oxford University has been world number one in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings since 2017 - the longest time any university has held the position in the 21 annual editions of the rankings.
FD-TACT malaria treatment trial launches patient recruitment in Rwanda
8 October 2025
A Phase 3 pivotal trial, led by MORU and funded by Japan’s Global Health Innovative Technology Fund (GHIT), has begun to evaluate a novel fixed-dose triple artemisinin-based combination treatment (FD-TACT) for uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria.
Professor Edwine Barasa Appointed as Executive Director of the KEMRI-Wellcome Research Programme
7 October 2025
Professor Edwine Barasa has been appointed as the Executive Director of the KEMRI-Wellcome Research Programme (KWRP), following the completion of a highly competitive recruitment process conducted by the Programme’s partners: the University of Oxford, KEMRI and Wellcome.
OUCRU workshop drives dialogue on early warning systems for climate-sensitive infectious diseases
6 October 2025
Researchers, policymakers, and health professionals gathered at the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) for a workshop on “Enablers and Barriers to Development and Implementation of Early Warning and Response Systems for Climate-Sensitive Infectious Diseases in Viet Nam.”
From Evidence to Impact: Transforming Sickle Cell Care in Kenya
5 October 2025
Sickle cell anaemia is a genetic condition causing red blood cells to become sickle-shaped, leading to painful complications and other health issues. In Kenya, it is common in malaria-prone regions, where the sickle cell trait offers some protection. Ongoing research and a long-standing clinic in Kilifi have improved survival rates, with more adults living full lives. Collaboration with local health authorities and the Ministry of Health supports early diagnosis, care guidelines, and expanded regional services.
Kevin Marsh awarded RSTMH’s 2025 Sir Patrick Manson Medal
1 October 2025
The Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene's most prestigious award, the Sir Patrick Manson Medal, is being given this year to Professor Kevin Marsh, a Malariologist and Global Health Researcher. Professor Marsh is the Director of the Africa Oxford Initiative and Senior Adviser Science for Africa Foundation at the University of Oxford. His major research interests focus on immunity to and pathogenesis of malaria, and he has a particular interest in supporting science and scientific leadership across Africa.
New partnership aims to tackle antibiotic overuse in African children’s hospitals
1 October 2025
PediSEP-1, a new study funded by the EDCTP3 Horizon programme, has launched to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in African hospitals. The initiative introduces a risk-differentiated care approach identifying low-risk children who can be safely discharged early with minimal or no antibiotics supported by targeted parental education and ‘virtual ward’ follow up by phone. The project seeks to reduce antibiotic overuse and AMR transmission, and increase system efficiency
Building Vietnam’s Clinical Trial Future: OUCRU and Partners at the Forefront
29 September 2025
On 26 September 2025, leading researchers, policymakers, and international partners gathered in Hanoi for the Workshop on Clinical Trial Opportunities in Viet Nam, co-organised by the World Health Organization, Hanoi Medical University, and the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU). The event marked an important step in strengthening Vietnam’s clinical trial ecosystem, aligning national ambitions with global health innovation.
MORU Community Advisory Boards meet in Bangkok
26 September 2025
From 21-22 Aug, twenty five MORU Major International Programme (MIP) colleagues attended the second CAB-NET meeting in Bangkok and online. Run by MORU Bioethics & Engagement (B&E), CAB-NET is a network that bring together the facilitators of community advisory boards (CABs) run by the MORU MIP to share activity updates, ideas and best practices, training, and network.
Joel Tarning awarded RSTMH’s 2025 Chalmers Medal
25 September 2025
Professor Joel Tarning, head of MORU’s Clinical Pharmacology Department, has been honoured with the award of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene’s Chalmers Medal for his exceptional contribution to the field of clinical pharmacology of neglected tropical diseases, and in particular antimalarial therapy.
A migrant mother’s 4-hr walk for antenatal care
24 September 2025
On the Thai-Myanmar border, life is often a daily struggle, especially for expectant mothers like migrant day labourer Daw Mu (name changed for privacy), who lives in a village near Jaydi Koh in Tak Province’s Phop Phra District. Now three months pregnant with her second child, Daw Mu must walk 4 hours to the Jaydi Koh SMRU/BHF outreach clinic for antenatal care, often with her four-year-old son by her side.
MODRA Cohort 2 begins: Empowering the next generation of leaders in global health
23 September 2025
Fifteen emerging scientists from South and Southeast Asia begin an 18-month journey with MODRA. Together, they are gaining the skills to lead research that makes a difference in global health.
New study find treatment for Chagas disease is excessive
23 September 2025
A new study has found the current recommended treatment for Chagas disease could be given over a substantially shorter time period and still be as effective.
Bridging science and practice to improve the outcome of patients with dengue
25 August 2025
Dengue cases in Ho Chi Minh City surged by 170% in 2025, straining hospitals and affecting both children and adults. In response, OUCRU and partners held a workshop with over 200 health professionals to share research, identify clinical gaps, and advance collaborative efforts for improved dengue diagnosis and treatment.
OUCRU researchers have a leading role in developing first International Clinical Practice Guideline for Tuberculous Meningitis
22 August 2025
OUCRU researchers have played a leading role in developing the world’s first international clinical practice guideline for tuberculous meningitis (TBM), now published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases.
New study maps immune cells fuelling harmful inflammation in tuberculous meningitis
21 August 2025
Tuberculous meningitis (TMB) harms not only through infection, but also through the body’s own overactive immune response. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, OUCRU scientists have identified specific immune cells in the brain that may be driving this harmful inflammation. Their study established a cutting-edge cellular method to identify new therapeutic targets for host-directed therapy, aimed at improving survival and reducing immune-mediated brain injury in TBM patients.
OUCRU release report on intensive care training programme in Vietnam
21 August 2025
After more than three years of collaboration, OUCRU and Dragon Capital are pleased to announce the release of the final report of the Intensive Care Training Programme for Life-Threatening Infectious Diseases in Vietnam.
Tracking resistance: Mapping the spread of drug-resistant malaria
20 August 2025
On World Mosquito Day, Dr Lucy Harrison, postdoctoral researcher at Oxford’s Infectious Diseases Data Observatory (IDDO) at the Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, reflects on the global impact of the mosquito and her research into malaria drug resistance.
SMRU honored at One Health Conference
19 August 2025
On 13 August 2025, SMRU received the “One Health Champion” First Prize for its response to a cholera outbreak along the Thai–Myanmar border. Awarded at a national One Health conference, the recognition highlights SMRU’s excellence in cross-border disease surveillance and public health response through collaborative, sustainable policy efforts.
OUCRU and partners launch Kleb-CASAVA project
18 August 2025
OUCRU and partners have officially launched the Klebsiella pneumoniae Community Acquired Infections Surveillance And Vaccine Development (Kleb-CASAVA) project. This collaborative initiative will strengthen surveillance of community-acquired Klebsiella pneumoniae infections and advance vaccine development to address the growing global threat of antimicrobial resistance
First volunteers receive Rift Valley fever vaccine in Kenya Phase II trial
15 August 2025
On 8 July 2025, researchers at the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme began the Phase II trial of the ChAdOx1 RVF vaccine in Kilifi, Kenya—the most advanced Rift Valley fever vaccine study in an outbreak-prone region. Led by Oxford University and funded by CEPI, this milestone brings us closer to a licensed vaccine for protecting lives and livelihoods.
Severe nurse shortages in Kenya undermine newborn care, despite advancements
14 August 2025
A multi-disciplinary study by KEMRI-Wellcome Trust, Harnessing Innovation in Global Health for Quality Care (HIGH-Q), has revealed how workforce issues influence the quality of care in newborn units. The research highlighted the effect of severe nurse staffing shortages in Kenyan hospitals as a major obstacle to providing quality care for newborns.
Indonesia to host first dual-species malaria vaccination trial
11 August 2025
OUCRU Indonesia is preparing a Phase 2 clinical trial of a malaria vaccination designed to protect against the two most widespread malaria parasites, Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. The trial, to be conducted in Keerom, Papua, will be the first to test a dual-species malaria vaccination in humans.
Simple new method that measures viral clearance means antibody treatments for COVID and ‘flu can be quickly assessed for effectiveness, say MORU researchers
7 August 2025
Measuring the rate of viral clearance from the back of the mouth in patients with mild infections can be used to determine quickly and inexpensively if an antibody is effective in future COVID-19, influenza and other respiratory virus pandemics, say researchers in a letter published today in The Lancet.
Global Action Needed to Tackle Noma Disease
5 August 2025
Greater surveillance and well-designed epidemiological studies for noma should be a research priority. A new BMJ Global Health paper reveals major gaps in research on noma, a severe and often fatal oral disease affecting children in low-resource settings. Despite WHO recognition of noma as a neglected tropical disease, limited data exists on its causes, burden, and treatment. The study calls for standardised reporting, increased surveillance, and improved early detection. Conducted by IDDO and WHO, the review analysed 366 studies to provide a comprehensive foundation for future research and policy action.
What I learned as a UK clinical intern at OUCRU Vietnam: infectious diseases and the realities of vaccine inequality
4 August 2025
Nandita Shenolikar, a final-year UK medical student, completed a clinical internship in infectious diseases at OUCRU in Ho Chi Minh City. She tells us how her placement offered unique exposure to severe infections, highlighting global vaccine disparities and deepening her medical knowledge. Nandita's experience also fostered friendships, cultural exploration and a lasting connection to Vietnam.
Policy in action: A Princeton student’s internship at OUCRU Vietnam
30 July 2025
Alayshja Bable, a Princeton University student, interned with OUCRU Vietnam’s Policy Engagement team, conducting interviews to evaluate how research informs health policy. Her work strengthened OUCRU’s strategy while deepening her understanding of Vietnam’s policy landscape. The experience also enriched her personal growth and affirmed her commitment to human rights work.
OUCRU and HSPI sign MoU to advance health research collaboration
29 July 2025
OUCRU and the Health Strategy and Policy Institute have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote joint research and evidence-based health policy. The agreement marks a significant step toward a long-term interdisciplinary collaboration.
New research finds that ivermectin could help control malaria transmission
24 July 2025
A collaborative new study involving KEMRI-Wellcome Trust researchers has highlighted a new way to control malaria transmission. The study found that ivermectin, a drug normally used for neglected tropical diseases, led to a 26% reduction in new malaria infections among children aged 5-15.
From Despair to Collective Action: Reflections from the Global Health Solidarity Open Forum 2025
22 July 2025
The Global Health Solidarity Open Forum 2025 convened over 150 global participants to explore solidarity in research and practice. Speakers emphasised power redistribution, equitable partnerships, and community-led engagement in global health. Discussions highlighted the importance of shifting from aid to collaboration, ensuring solidarity becomes a driving force in shaping just, resilient health systems.
Community discussion: What do underserved populations at risk of Hepatitis C Virus need the most?
21 July 2025
As part of efforts to improve Hepatitis C care for underserved groups, OUCRU hosted a dialogue bringing together community members, social scientists and insurance representatives. Participants, including people who inject drugs, LGBT+ individuals and low-income groups, discussed barriers to accessing health insurance despite policy improvements. Challenges include complex hospital systems, documentation issues, limited awareness, financial constraints and privacy concerns. The session highlighted the importance of continued community-based participatory research to address health inequities and strengthen support networks.
Two nights of talks for Pint of Science Laos 2025
16 July 2025
In May 2025, LOMWRU organised the 4th Pint of Science event in Vientiane, Laos, as part of the global Pint of Science festival. The successful event, open to the general public, had local researchers from public health, wildlife conservation, and geology giving fun and interesting talks over two nights, giving insights into how their work impacts Laos.
15 emerging Asian global health researchers selected to join MODRA
11 July 2025
The MORU – OUCRU Discovery Research Academy (MODRA) announces its 2025 cohort of emerging researchers in global health and infectious diseases.
Who held the microphone during the health crisis? A case study from Indonesia
8 July 2025
How participatory mapping helped identify trusted voices in health crisis communication during Indonesia’s COVID-19 response? This article highlights the role of public trust, local leadership, and culturally relevant messaging in shaping more inclusive and effective communication strategies for future outbreaks.
Enhancing research through effective science communication and strengthening community bonds
4 July 2025
At the Public and Communication Science Technology Conference (PCST) 2025, OUCRU showcased four projects highlighting the value of culturally sensitive public and community engagement in science. Presenters stressed the importance of tailoring communication to local contexts and promoting open science. The conference underscored the need for better recognition of engagement roles within academic research in the Global South.
Using photos to express community perspectives: how photovoice reflects the daily health risk of climate change
3 July 2025
Climate change is the greatest health threat facing humanity today. Its impact on livelihoods, equity, healthcare access, and community resilience falls hardest on vulnerable groups—women, children, ethnic minorities, older adults, and those with pre-existing conditions. How can a creative engagement method, photovoice explore the perception and communicate climate and health risks in Indonesia, Vietnam and Nepal?
Africa launches landmark consortium to transform health research with longitudinal data
25 June 2025
The African Population Cohorts Consortium (APCC) has formally launched, uniting over 40 population cohorts from 16 countries. With £4 million funding from Wellcome, the initiative aims to harness longitudinal data to advance health equity, shape policy, and strengthen scientific leadership across Africa, focusing on ethics, data and impact.
Using effective media strategies to bridge gaps to hard-to-reach populations: case studies in Vietnam and Indonesia
25 June 2025
OUCRU has developed culturally tailored strategies to improve vaccine communication and uptake in diverse communities across Vietnam and Indonesia. From training village health collaborators and co-creating storytelling films in Dak Lak to animated videos for malaria trial recruitment among Indonesian soldiers, these efforts highlight the power of locally relevant, creative engagement. By addressing structural barriers, cultural sensitivities and trust, OUCRU’s initiatives demonstrate how community-informed approaches can enhance public health research and support better health outcomes.
Real-time genetic surveillance can support timely, evidence-based responses to shifting malaria threats
25 June 2025
A sharp decline in piperaquine-resistant strains of P. Falciparum malaria following drug policy revisions across the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) highlights how real-time genetic data can support timely, evidence-based responses to shifting malaria threats, say researchers in a study published in Nature Communications.
Oxford academics awarded European Research Council Advanced Grants for cutting-edge research
17 June 2025
Professor Deirdre Hollingsworth and six researchers at the University of Oxford have been awarded Advanced Grants from the European Research Council, each worth up to €2.5 million over a period of five years.
Bring time back to care with AI-assisted applications for dengue in Vietnam
16 June 2025
OUCRU has developed D‑SCAPE, a wearable device, and D‑CAT, an AI-led clinical decision tool, to enhance dengue management in Vietnam. These innovations automate vital monitoring and analyse patient data to predict deterioration, allowing timely action. They alleviate frontline workloads and improve proactive care in resource-constrained hospitals.
Interview with Trudie Lang, mpox surging in Sierra Leone
13 June 2025
As mpox cases rise in Sierra Leone, Professor Trudie Lang helps us understand the implications of the continuing spread of the disease, why it matters and how global efforts to tackle the outbreak are progressing.
Research finds new metabolic clues to survival in tuberculous meningitis
12 June 2025
In a collaborative new study led by OUCRU, researchers have found that tryptophan in cerebrospinal fluid is a determinant of lower survival in people with tuberculous meningitis. These findings suggest the possibility that other metabolites could also predict patient outcomes.
WHO delegation visits OUCRU to strengthen collaboration on infectious disease research and surveillance
12 June 2025
A WHO delegation visited OUCRU and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (HTD) to explore collaborative efforts in infectious disease research, diagnostics, and surveillance. The institutions showcased achievements in outbreak response and genomic sequencing. The visit strengthened ties with WHO, highlighting OUCRU and HTD’s regional leadership and commitment to advancing health security and training opportunities.
Nipah virus vaccine granted European Medicines Agency PRIME designation
11 June 2025
Co-led by researchers at the Pandemic Sciences Institute, the Nipah virus has been granted PRIME designation. This recognises the vaccine’s potential to address the unmet medical need arising from the devastating Nipah virus disease, which can be fatal in up to 85% of cases.
Circus arts shine spotlight on AMR in Cambodian communities
4 June 2025
In May 2025, circus performances were used to educate Cambodian youth on the correct use of antibiotics. Misuse of antibiotics is a major driver of bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR) worldwide. The wide availability of antibiotics over the counter in Cambodia and linguistic issues make it difficult for younger Cambodians to understand when antibiotic use is appropriate.
AI and big data in clinical care for infectious diseases in Vietnam
3 June 2025
Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Ho Chi Minh City recently hosted a scientific conference titled “Applying Artificial Intelligence and Big Data in Clinical Practice for Infectious Diseases.”
Nurturing Tomorrow’s Research Leaders: A Celebration of Mentorship and Discovery
3 June 2025
The KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Schools Engagement Programme (SEP) celebrated the achievements of its School Leavers Attachment Scheme (SLAS) through a poster event. Twelve Kilifi students explored real-world research, mentored by experts. SEP’s immersive, hands-on experience builds scientific skills, confidence, and curiosity, inspiring the next generation of researchers and future science leaders.
OUCRU and partners chart a “Roadmap to the Future of Clinical Trials in Vietnam”
2 June 2025
A new report charts a roadmap to make Vietnam a top-three ASEAN destination for clinical trials by 2030. It outlines challenges and solutions to unlock economic and health benefits. Aligning with global best practice can position Vietnam as a hub for life-saving research and innovation.
Ambitious project to develop low-cost genome sequencing for pathogens
28 May 2025
A low-cost genome sequencing technique that was used by thousands of laboratories globally to spot COVID-19 variants will be extended to cover all pathogens, in an ambitious new Wellcome Trust-funded project launched today. The ARTIC-2 project is led by the University of Birmingham and brings together researchers from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana and Kenya with expertise in responding to numerous viral threats using genomic surveillance, including recent outbreaks of Ebola virus and Mpox in Africa.