Steven Thomas Leach

Dr. Steven Thomas Leach is a Research Scientist specializing in gastrointestinal microbiome research at the University of New South Wales, affiliated with Sydney Children’s Hospital and Royal Hospital for Women. He serves as Head of Laboratory Research at Sydney Children’s Hospital, supporting clinical trials and research projects on childhood diseases. His qualifications include a BSc (Hons) and PhD.

His research examines bacterial colonization in infant guts, microbiome development, and interactions between the microbiome and immune system. Key focuses include inflammatory bowel disease, necrotizing enterocolitis, eczema, allergies, and irritable bowel syndrome. He collaborates extensively with healthcare professionals to improve pediatric health outcomes.

Awards & Honors:

• Postgraduate Research Supervisor Award
• Deans Rising star award
• Gastroenterology Society of Australia Travel Grant

Grants & Funding: Supported by NHMRC, Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation, Janssen Pty Ltd, and The R E Ross Trust. Currently supervises 2 PhD students and 2 ILP students in areas including microbiome bioinformatics and infant gastrointestinal disorders.

Professional Engagement: Member of Gastroenterological Society of Australia; Editorial Board member for Frontiers in Pediatrics and Nutrients; Committee roles include SCHN Kids Research Leadership Committee and SCHN Human Research Ethics Committee.