The etiology of this devastating disorder is still unclear; it is generally considered a complex disease where multiple genetic and environmental factors interact.
We are interested in variation in incidence and prevalence rates because they can point to important risk factors and thus provide clues to the etiological process.
Through his clinical work as a psychiatrist, Professor John McGrath has had direct experience of the problems faced by people living with schizophrenia, while as Director of Epidemiology he has led a program of research into the etiology of this disorder.
Joy Welham, Senior Scientist at the same research centre, has also had extensive research and clinical work involving people with schizophrenia and is also keenly interested in identifying risk factors, especially those involved with early developmental processes.
Sukanta Saha, another Scientist member of the team, has had important practical and research experience in public health, in particular the effect of nutrition on human development, and is currently taking a lead role in developing models of incidence and prevalence of schizophrenia.