Melissa Russell

Melissa Russell is an Associate Professor in Epidemiology at the Centre of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne. She serves as Deputy Director of her Centre and focuses on improving university student mental health through curriculum and assessment design and promoting social connection.

• Education: PhD (University of Melbourne, 2008), Bachelors Degree (University of Melbourne), Certificate (Australian Institute of Company Directors)
• Collaborations: Department of General Practice and Centre of Mental Health, University of Melbourne

Melissa's research explores the intersection of university student mental health, international student experiences, and physical activity interventions. Her work includes analyzing pandemic impacts on mental health, asthma/lung health trajectories, and health-promoting university frameworks.

Recent studies highlight trends in digital phenotyping (StudentSense), allergic sensitization interactions, and caregiver health outcomes. She emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to link university data with mental health metrics.

• Honors:
  • 2020: Gem Scott Teaching Fellowship
  • 2019: Gem Scott Fellowship
  • 2014: Career Interruption Research Fellowship & Career Interruption Fellowship
• Grants:
  • BUPA Foundation Grant (2019-2020)
  • Gem Scott Fellowship (2019-2020)
  • NHMRC Project Grant (2012-2016)
  • University of Melbourne Teaching and Learning Grant (2017-2018)
  • University of Melbourne Grant (2021)