Research
Our research expertise spans multiple infectious diseases and global regions, making us well placed to undertake research and to respond to both emerging outbreaks and endemic pathogens. Our research spans studies to understand the transmission dynamics and epidemiological patterns of infectious diseases using a range of mathematical models, through to more applied research addressing important public health questions.
For methods we use a range of quantitative approaches, from branching process to compartmental to agents based models to answer questions of epidemiological and public health importance. Our modeling uses a range of data sources, including serological, surveillance and pathogen genomic data. We have research focusing on a range of different diseases and some example diseases for which we undertake research are listed below.
Here we provide case studies which demonstrate our ongoing projects and breadth of experience.
Mpox
Mpox is a zoonotic disease caused by the Monkeypox virus. Mpox has historically been endemic in Central and West Africa but recent global outbreaks have affected a wider range of geographic regions and population groups since 2022. We analyse global outbreak data to understand the role of heterogeneous contact networks on viral transmission dynamics and to inform effective interventions. Our projects have involved collaborations with partners and stakeholders in multiple countries including Singapore, UK, DR Congo and Burundi.
Dengue
Dengue fever is an emerging infection caused by a family of four mosquito-transmitted viruses that affect urban populations globally in tropical and subtropical regions, including in Singapore and elsewhere in Southeast Asia. CERM has led modelling efforts to understand the exposure of different populations to dengue using serological survey data, forecast future dengue incidence, understand the determinants of spatial spread, and unpick the impact of vector control strategies.
Neglected tropical diseases
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a broad family of endemic infections that typically affect low income rural populations within tropical and subtropical regions, including Southeast Asia. Recent work within the centre has focused on the epidemiological link between foodborne trematodes and liver cancer in Thailand. Future studies aim to understand the shifting burden of NTDs in the region, given large-scale changes to land use patterns, climate and urbanisation.