University of Newcastle – Hunter Medical Research Institute

The University of Newcastle node is located at the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) Imaging Centre. This node links directly Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD), HMRI and university researchers to regional and rural communities, facilitated through the University’s established regional research engagement programs in rural and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.

HMRI Imaging Centre delivers important translational imaging research for the University and wider Hunter region and with research capabilities it bridges the gap between urban, regional and rural communities. The Imaging Centre is leading a number of unique research studies of relevance to Indigenous peoples, including early detection of intrauterine growth restriction; impact of prenatal maternal physical activity on foetal neurodevelopment; mechanisms of cognitive ageing; and addressing the burden of hearing loss. The Imaging Centre is collaborating with national Indigenous researchers on innovative research into Indigenous medicinal plants and  Indigenous place based narrative memory techniques. Through growing this profile, the Imaging Centre aims to be a leader in Indigenous health research that will support Indigenous ownership of research and assist in closing the gap.