Disciplines & areas of research
![Artwork on the side of Building D, Footscray Park Campus](https://content.vu.edu.au/sites/default/files/images/2024-03/footscray-park-campus-building-d.jpg)
We undertake applied and translational research to create healthier, smarter and more-sustainable communities in the west of Melbourne and beyond.
We address a wide range of important issues in our research programs, in collaboration with industry and the community, to enhance life quality.
This approach allows us to address a wide range of important issues under our major themes, within which several disciplines interact.
![Indigenous student Stella Rose Lay in laboratory](https://content.vu.edu.au/sites/default/files/styles/vu_large_16_9/public/images/2024-03/stella-rose-lay-female-science-student.jpg?h=c71d0c67&itok=ykGsWXF0)
Emerging Trends in Science, IT & Engineering
Research in engineering, energy, ecology, fire safety, IT systems, transport infrastructure, built environment, mathematics, water systems and advanced food systems.
![Grace Tay, international MBA student](https://content.vu.edu.au/sites/default/files/styles/vu_large_16_9/public/images/2024-03/grace-tay-female-international-mba-student.jpg?h=c71d0c67&itok=o8mupoNM)
Transformative Research in Policy, Economy & Business
Studying the business, fundamental economic, social and technological changes that are recasting the global economy, related public policy, the Internet of Things and developing effective policy responses to them.
![Business students Bol Matiang and Celil Said Kardaslar seated outside Country Court of Victoria](https://content.vu.edu.au/sites/default/files/styles/vu_large_16_9/public/images/2024-03/bol-matiang-celil-said-kardaslar-business-students.jpg?h=c71d0c67&itok=sd47IPtW)
New Frontiers in Advocacy, Justice, Education & Practice
Research in social inclusion, community development, inclusive and transformational education and social justice. Also, research in ethics, and legal and law-policy issues facing the Australian community, legal profession, government, and regulators.