Thomas Tu

Adjunct Associate Professor Thomas Tu is a leading virologist at the Westmead Institute for Medical Research (WIMR) and the University of Sydney. With a career dedicated to Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) research, he combines molecular biology with community engagement to address HBV pathogenesis and its societal impact.

• Key affiliations: Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health (University of Sydney)
• Leadership roles: President of Australian Centre for Hepatitis Virology, Founder of HepBcommunity.org

Research Interests focus on HBV persistence mechanisms (cccDNA dynamics, integration), liver cancer development, and community-driven solutions. His work bridges molecular virology with public health, emphasizing stigma reduction and accessible diagnostics.

Scientific Output Trends reveal a 2025–2024 emphasis on HBV community engagement, cccDNA-targeting therapies, and zoonotic models like feline hepadnaviruses. Earlier work (2022–2021) explored viral integration in carcinogenesis, host-virus interactions, and diagnostic innovations.

Scientific Awards & Grants include the 2024 LiverWELL Mark Farmer Award, NHMRC Ideas Grant (2021–2026), and multiple ACH⁴ and Gilead-funded projects. Total funding exceeds $20M.

Supervision & Mentorship involves direct guidance of 10 PhD students (6 completed), 4 Honours students, and leadership of the Westmead Research Hub Mentoring Program (160 participants).

Community & Global Impact spans HepBcommunity.org (2,500+ users), WHOCC advisory roles, and advocacy via Hepatitis Australia and World Hepatitis Alliance. Collaborations include German institutions (Technical University Munich, University Clinic Heidelberg).