Marcus Chen

Marcus Chen is a Professor at the School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, and a specialist in sexual health medicine at the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health. He holds Fellowships with the Royal College of Physicians and the Australasian Chapter of Sexual Health Medicine. As an NHMRC Leadership Fellow, Chen leads significant research initiatives focused on improving the management of sexually transmitted infections globally.

Chen's research interests center on sexually transmitted infections, with particular expertise in syphilis management, gonorrhea treatment, HPV research, and innovative contact tracing methods. His work has significantly influenced international policy and practice on STIs, with publications referenced by researchers in 120 countries. He has developed novel approaches to STI testing and management, particularly in the context of growing syphilis epidemics in Australia and other countries.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on the detection of pathogens at various anatomical sites, the clinical presentation of STIs, and the development of innovative testing and treatment strategies. This research spans molecular epidemiology, clinical diagnostics, and public health interventions to improve STI management.

• Award for Significant Contribution to Sexual Health Medicine (2011)
• Award for Outstanding Contribution to Research in Sexual Health Medicine (2019)
• Australian Museum Eureka Prize for Infectious Diseases Research (2022)
• Australasian Sexual and Reproductive Health Alliance Innovation Award (2021)
• Multiple team awards recognizing excellence in sexual health research

Chen serves as lead investigator on several major grants, including an NHMRC Partnership Project Grant designing innovative methods to improve syphilis testing and management. He has established the Victorian Sexual Health Network of sexual health services in general practice and led the development of the web-based contact tracing service 'Let Them Know,' which has facilitated over half a million partner notifications. His work extends to national and international advisory roles, including membership on the US Centers for Disease Control STI Treatment Guidelines committee.

Chen oversees multiple research teams and projects focusing on STI management, including active investigations into syphilis control strategies, HPV prevalence studies, and novel approaches to gonorrhea treatment. His leadership in the field has established Melbourne as a global center for sexual health research and innovation.