German medical student Du Hanh spent a month at the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) in Ho Chi Minh City, gaining firsthand experience in tropical and infectious diseases. From ICU rounds to research discussions, he discovered how OUCRU connects clinical care, research, and public health to make a real-world impact.
OUCRU Nepal has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the A*STAR Infectious Diseases Labs (A*STAR IDL), Singapore, to establish a collaborative partnership aimed at advancing research in infectious diseases. This strategic collaboration focuses on mutual interest with a shared focus on antimicrobial resistance, respiratory diseases, and vector-borne diseases, including associated neuroviral outcomes.
OUCRU-Nepal is proud to announce that Dr Sabina Dongol has been selected to join the first cohort of the ISARIC Leadership Programme for Scientists a global initiative aimed at empowering mid-career female researchers from Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) to become independent research leaders.
In a new commentary for BMJ Global Health, University of Oxford researchers argue that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) interventions often ignore morally relevant differences between microbes. They highlight that antimalarial resistance disproportionately affects low- and middle-income countries, particularly children in sub-Saharan Africa, and deserves greater attention in global health research and intervention priorities. The team calls for more equitable resource allocation, policy change, and advocacy to ensure AMR responses are just and inclusive.
Dr Anne Makena, has announced her decision to transition from the role of Co-Director of the Africa Oxford initiative. A founding member of the Africa Oxford Initiative, Dr Makena has overseen the establishment and rapid growth of AfOx from conceptualisation to scaling for almost a decade.
We are delighted to announce that seven CTMGH researchers have been awarded the title of Professor, in recognition of their research achievements, contribution to teaching, and contribution to the general work of the Nuffield Department of Medicine.
Oxford University has been world number one in the\u202fTimes Higher Education World University Rankings since 2017\u202f- the longest time any university has held the position in the 21 annual editions of the rankings.
Mental and substance use disorders are a major health concern in Kenya, yet remain underfunded and highly stigmatised. Despite policies like the Kenya Mental Health Policy, over 75% of those affected never receive professional care. Research institutions, including KEMRI\u2013Wellcome Research Programme, have played a key role in shaping national and county-level responses. Progress is being made through community-based care, traditional healer collaboration, and the professionalisation of Community Health Promoters, but significant resource and workforce challenges remain.
A major international collaboration between ISARIC researchers at King\u2019s College London and the Oxford University Clinical Research Trials Unit (OUCRU) has created the first global Core Outcome Measurement Set (COMS) for dengue clinical trials.
A Phase 3 pivotal trial, led by MORU and funded by Japan\u2019s 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 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\u2019s partners: the University of Oxford, KEMRI and Wellcome.
Researchers, policymakers, and health professionals gathered at the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) for a workshop on\u202f\u201cEnablers and Barriers to Development and Implementation of Early Warning and Response Systems for Climate-Sensitive Infectious Diseases in Viet Nam.\u201d
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.
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.
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 \u2018virtual ward\u2019 follow up by phone. The project seeks to reduce antibiotic overuse and AMR transmission, and increase system efficiency
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\u2019s clinical trial ecosystem, aligning national ambitions with global health innovation.
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.
Professor Joel Tarning, head of MORU\u2019s Clinical Pharmacology Department, has been honoured with the award of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene\u2019s Chalmers Medal for his exceptional contribution to the field of clinical pharmacology of neglected tropical diseases, and in particular antimalarial therapy.
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\u2019s 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.
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.
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