Evan Cunningham

Evan Cunningham is a Senior Lecturer at the Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, specializing in hepatitis C virus (HCV) research with a focus on populations of people who inject drugs and prison settings. His work contributes significantly to global efforts toward HCV elimination through implementation science, epidemiological studies, and clinical trials that bridge research and public health action.

Dr. Cunningham's educational background includes:

• BSc (Hons) in Biotechnology from the University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
• PhD from the Kirby Institute focusing on transmission and treatment of HCV in people who inject drugs

His research program spans multiple critical dimensions of viral hepatitis elimination:

• Evaluating HCV treatment outcomes and reinfection patterns among people who inject drugs
• Designing and testing simplified HCV testing strategies for hard-to-reach populations
• Assessing cost-effectiveness of HCV elimination programs in diverse settings
• Implementing HCV treatment in prison settings as a prevention strategy
• Mapping global access to HCV treatment through policy analysis
• Developing point-of-care diagnostics for decentralized HCV testing

Analysis of Dr. Cunningham's extensive publication record reveals a consistent focus on practical, implementation-oriented research that addresses real-world barriers to HCV elimination. His work frequently examines the intersection of HCV with drug use, incarceration, and healthcare access, with particular attention to vulnerable populations. The research portfolio spans epidemiological studies, clinical trials, systematic reviews, and health economic analyses, all contributing to the evidence base needed for effective public health interventions across diverse global contexts.

Dr. Cunningham has been actively involved in numerous large-scale studies including the SToP-C study on prison-based HCV treatment, the SHARP-C study on HCV reinfection, and the ETHOS Engage Study examining comprehensive HCV care among people who inject drugs. His collaborative approach is evident in the international scope of his work and the multidisciplinary nature of his research teams.

As part of the Kirby Institute's Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Dr. Cunningham contributes to Australia's leadership in HCV elimination efforts while simultaneously advancing global understanding of effective strategies for viral hepatitis control. His work bridges clinical research, public health implementation, and health policy to accelerate progress toward WHO elimination targets.