Research & Clinical Trials

Research methodologies employed by our members span the spectrum from basic science to epidemiologic studies, clinical trials, and population-based health outcomes research.

Major research themes include hospital epidemiology and healthcare-associated infections, the epidemiology, detection, and prevention of antibiotic-resistant organisms, and HIV infection. We also participate in a number of clinical trials investigating the role of new anti-infective medications.

Visit our research showcase to learn more about our researchers and their work.

Areas of Focus

Healthcare-Associated Infections

Our translational research and clinical investigations focus on better understanding the epidemiology, risk factors, and outcomes associated with significant healthcare-associated infections and antimicrobial-resistant organisms causing infections in hospitalized patients. We also evaluate novel diagnostic modalities, newer forms of treatment and prevention strategies. Specific areas of interest include infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Clostridium difficile.

Our team of investigators are founding members and leaders in national surveillance initiatives, such as the Canadian Nosocomial Infection Surveillance Program (CNISP). We have also taken the lead in quality improvement initiatives that seek to evaluate the impact of infection prevention and control interventions, and the implementation of a hospital-wide antibiotic stewardship program.

HIV Infection

The second major area of research interest is HIV infection, particularly its epidemiology and management. We participate in many HIV-related clinical trials of new therapeutic agents.

Funding

Funding of our research has come from a variety of sources including the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Physicians’ Services Incorporated (PSI) Foundation, the Public Health Agency of Canada, and various industry partners. Our investigators have been extremely productive, publishing a vast array of articles having significant clinical impact. Two members of the Division are Clinician Scientists, devoting at least 70% of their time to research activities.