Children's Health Research Institute

The Maternal, Fetal and Newborn Health Division has a long-tradition reputation of research excellence in fetal and newborn health and is internationally renowned for its bench to bedside translational research.

Overview

Our research is focused on (1) studying the mechanisms of normal and abnormal fetal and newborn growth and development; (2) understanding how maternal health and well-being influence fetal and newborn health and development; (3) investigating the long-term effects of abnormal fetal development on childhood health and diseases; and (4) developing non-invasive and safe methods for early detection of abnormal fetal development, and formulating intervention strategies to prevent and treat abnormal fetal development..

Why Our Research is Important

There is increasing evidence that children’s health and well-being are largely determined by events during fetal life. By pursing the four research directions mentioned above, the research conducted by our scientists will lead to development of biomarkers and diagnostic tools for early detection of abnormal fetal development. It will also lead to development of intervention therapies to prevent and treat abnormal fetal development. In doing so, our research will get to the root of childhood diseases and behavioural disorders, and thus improving the overall quality of life for children.

Research Activities

For information on current research activities of all CHRI Scientists and Associate Scientists please refer to their individual webpages via the links in the "Our Scientists" table below.

Educational and Training Opportunities

Partnerships Western University's Departments of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Paediatrics, and Physiology & Pharmacology provide support, funding and research space. This contributes to the recruitment and retention of scientists. 

Moving maternal and neonatal clinical services to the new Women and Children's Tower at London Health Sciences Centre will facilitate clinical sample collection and increase interactions between basic and clinical scientists. The recent appointment of several scientists from the newly established Maternal Health Outcomes Unit is a key component of bringing maternal health into the Children’s Health Research Institute umbrella.

Our Scientists