معرفی
Elaine Burns is an Associate Professor of Midwifery and Director of Research in the School of Nursing and Midwifery at Western Sydney University. With 20 years of clinical experience in NSW hospitals prior to her academic career, Professor Burns brings substantial practical expertise to her research and teaching roles. She serves as Chair of the Western Sydney Infant and Young Child feeding Collaborative and Research Theme Lead for the School of Nursing and Midwifery's Mother Infant Family Network (MIFam).
- Western Sydney University, School of Nursing and Midwifery (current)
- Chair of the Western Sydney Infant and Young Child feeding Collaborative
- Research Theme Lead for the SoNM Mother Infant Family Network
- South Western Sydney Local Health District collaboration
- NSW Ministry of Health research partnership
Professor Burns' research focuses on breastfeeding, pre- and post-birth care, and midwifery practice/education. She is ranked number 4 in the Top 500 researchers in the Asia/Pacific for breastfeeding research. Her work examines barriers to breastfeeding, cultural influences on maternal care, and healthcare system improvements to better support women, infants, and families. Professor Burns employs multidisciplinary approaches, combining clinical insights with rigorous research methods to address complex issues in maternal and infant health.
Analysis of Professor Burns' recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong focus on practical healthcare improvements, particularly in postnatal care journeys, breastfeeding support systems, and addressing obstetric violence. Her research spans cross-cultural studies, healthcare documentation practices, and service delivery models, demonstrating both breadth and depth in maternal health research. The publications show increasing international collaboration and attention to vulnerable populations.
- Ranked #4 in Top 500 breastfeeding researchers in Asia/Pacific
- Extensive media coverage of research including Public Breastfeeding (2016), Like a Piranha, and Breastfeeding dictator or breastfeeding enabler
- Significant research impact with publications receiving citations and media mentions
Professor Burns actively supervises HDR candidates and leads multiple funded research projects, including 'Supporting Vulnerable Families Through Early Years Support Service' (2024-2026) and previously completed projects focused on vulnerable mothers, pregnancy care access, and postnatal care models. Her research grants from organizations including 3Bridges Community Limited, NSW Ministry of Health, and the New South Wales Nurses and Midwives' Association demonstrate strong institutional support for her work. Professor Burns' research is characterized by practical applications that directly inform healthcare practice and policy.
As Director of Research for the School of Nursing and Midwifery and Chair of the Western Sydney Infant and Young Child feeding Collaborative, Professor Burns leads a research ecosystem focused on improving maternal and infant health outcomes. Her team works across multiple projects addressing breastfeeding challenges, postnatal care models, and healthcare system improvements, with strong connections to clinical practice settings and community organizations.
