Research Impact - Southern Cross University

Research that starts in our communities.
Impact that reaches the world.

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Southern Cross University researchers are tackling global challenges in climate, health and food security, through work grounded in the regions we serve and delivered in partnership.

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Research with real-world impact

Proven in the real world

Funded, tested and applied in real‑world settings

Partnered for impact

Delivered with industry, clinical and global partners

Shaping policy and practice

Informing policy and practice, at home and abroad

Globally recognised excellence

Recognised nationally and internationally

Associate Professor Janet Schloss

Exploring new approaches to recovery and wellbeing

Disasters, cancer and chronic illness don’t just affect physical health, they can profoundly impact wellbeing, identity and quality of life long after treatment or recovery begins.

Following the devastating NSW Northern Rivers floods of 2022, many people are still living with the invisible effects of trauma; while patients with aggressive cancers like glioblastoma continue to face limited treatment options.

Associate Professor Janet Schloss is exploring how evidence-informed integrative care can better support people during some of life’s most difficult moments.

Her work spans a world-first trial of a stepped-care model for treating mental health in response to natural disasters; alongside clinical trials investigating supportive treatments for people living with brain cancer.

Working with arts and nature therapists, psychologists, clinicians and community leaders, her team has secured major grant from the Australian government through the Medical Research Futures Fund (MRFF) to develop scalable approaches for climate-related PTSD that could be adapted for disaster-affected communities worldwide.

At the same time, her oncology research is exploring whether natural compounds and integrative therapies can help improve treatment experiences and quality of life for cancer patients.

As climate disasters become more frequent and cancer rates continue to rise, communities are searching for better ways to support recovery, resilience and wellbeing. Research that combines rigorous clinical evidence with compassionate care could help improve how people experience treatment, trauma and healing.

More research in action

Associate Professor Daniel Harrison

The race to protect coral reefs is reaching the sky. Research is exploring whether cloud brightening could help cool the waters surrounding vulnerable reef systems.

Dr Luke Jeffrey

What if trees are doing more for the climate than we thought? Research has uncovered trillions of microbes living in tree bark that actively remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.

Professor Peter Harrison

A new generation of corals is being grown for a changing climate. World-first Coral IVF research is helping restore stronger, more heat-tolerant reefs damaged by extreme ocean heat.

Dr Dylan Poulus

Gaming is no longer just a hobby – for millions, it’s community, competition and identity. Research is helping define what healthy participation in esports and online gaming really looks like.

Professor Georgina Dimopoulos

Family court decisions can shape childhoods long after proceedings end. Research is helping better recognise children’s voices, experiences and safety during family separation.

Professor Tobias Kretzschmar

The future of food won’t just depend on what we grow, but how we grow it. Research into climate-smart crops is exploring ways to grow staple foods with less water and lower emissions.