One of Australia’s leading scholars in LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing has been appointed as the new Director of the Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society (ARCSHS) at La Trobe University.
Professor Adam Bourne will lead the Centre after acting in the role over much of the last 18 months, during which it has had its most successful year of grant income - $6.34 million – and delivered high quality research relating to sex, sexuality, gender, consumption and human relationships.
ARCSHS is a leading institution in Australia conducting social research. Established in 1993, the Centre is based within the School of Psychology and Public Health and is an integral part of the University’s research strategy.
Since 2017, Professor Bourne has led the development of research at the Centre that examines the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ populations, at both a domestic level and in an international context. This includes in the areas of alcohol and other drug use, mental health and family violence. He also maintains an active involvement in HIV-related research, especially in low and middle-income contexts as well as adolescent sexual health.
“I am excited to take on the role in a substantive capacity and to lead ARCSHS in its next phase of evolution and growth. The Centre has a 30-year history working at the cutting edge of complex social issues and it’s a privilege to help continue its reputation for excellence,” Professor Bourne said.
La Trobe University Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Industry Engagement Professor Susan Dodds congratulated Professor Bourne on his appointment.
“I wish to commend Adam on his appointment as Director; this new role builds on his record of research excellence, leadership, and involvement with ARCSHS and its government and community partners,” Professor Dodds said.
La Trobe University Dean, Psychology & Public Health, Professor Monica Thielking welcomed Professor Bourne to the School.
“The School is absolutely delighted to have such a high calibre researcher and leader like Professor Adam Bourne lead ARCSHS. I am excited for the future of this thriving and highly impactful research centre with Adam at the helm,” Professor Thielking said.
Professor Bourne has published more than 130 peer-reviewed journal articles, 50 research reports plus a range of book chapters and briefing papers. He is a chief investigator on grants totalling more than $13 million.
He is also the Co-Chair of the Victorian Whole of Government Taskforce and has been appointed to both the Commonwealth LGBTIQ Health and Wellbeing 10-year Action Plan Expert Advisory Group and the ABS Census LGBTIQ Advisory Group.
ARCSHS works collaboratively and in partnership with other researchers, communities, community-based organisations, government and professionals in relevant fields to advance knowledge and promote positive change in policy, practice and people’s lives.
