La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre Research

Our purpose is to lead, conduct and disseminate outstanding research to optimise an individual’s chosen level of performance and participation in sport, exercise, physical activity, work, leisure, family and social life.

We have a unique collaboration between clinical and sports science, which can make a real and positive difference to the health, wellbeing, performance and participation of individuals and communities.

Research streams

HERsport

Our research group strives to support and promote the health of women in sport. We are one of 11 IOC international research centres for the prevention of injury and protection of athlete health supported by the International Olympic Committee.

Musculoskeletal and Brain Health

Our research program promotes musculoskeletal health, aiming to optimise individuals’ performance and participation in sport, physical activity, work, leisure, family, and social life. We focus on crucial areas such as patellofemoral pain, tendon and hip pain (including FAI syndrome, hip dysplasia, and hip osteoarthritis), traumatic knee injuries, and post-traumatic osteoarthritis, as well as multidisciplinary interventions designed to reduce inappropriate surgery and improve long-term health outcomes.

Our work extends to the prevention and management of injuries and chronic diseases across the lifespan, with a strong emphasis on lifestyle interventions. We undertake longitudinal cohort studies to evaluate the epidemiology of injuries and diseases, alongside clinical trials that examine the effectiveness of lifestyle treatments—such as diet, exercise, and behavioural change—for a range of chronic conditions, including musculoskeletal pain, osteoarthritis, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes.

Apply for research

Interested in joining our research team? Get in touch via LASEM@latrobe.edu.au.
Visit the Graduate Research School for details on finding the right supervisor and how to apply for research opportunities.