The Melbourne Research Unit for Facial Disorders
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Our Mission
We aim to improve the health and well-being of children who are afflicted with facial disorders (i.e. oral, dental and craniofacial malformations and diseases). The MRUFD supports scientists and clinicians investigating the causes, development and management of these disorders. We also aim to build teams and networks that foster translational research in these areas. To help achieve these aims, the MRUFD maintains productive affiliations with The University of Melbourne and Murdoch Childrens Research Institute (see Objectives and Philosophy).
Achievements
Since its foundation in 2000, the MRUFD has successfully engaged a Professorial Fellow, clinicians and scientists from a wide range of related specialties to investigate the causes and treatment outcomes for functional disabilities and deformities associated with facial disorders. Clinical and laboratory research has resulted in over 28 publications in the international literature on a range of topics including bone regeneration, dental defects, cleft palate and facial development. New research projects supported by the Unit include the molecular basis of tooth development, muscle physiology underpinning facial morphology, and the clinical management of infants with airway obstruction. New translational research teams have been assembled and resourced, enabling clinicians to contribute 'hands on' to laboratory work. The MRUFD also has initiated two network groups and contributed to professional and public education through various avenues (guest lectures, meeting organisation, websites).
Continuing Support
Initiated with a generous donation from Allan and Maria Myers, AO (pictured at left of banner pictures, above), the MRUFD is dependent on financial support from a variety of sources for its continued growth and development. In 2007, the Myers kindly made a second major donation to sustain the Unit. We are grateful to have received additional contributions from many others including patients, practitioners, professional societies and the trade. We welcome the opportunity to discuss MRUFD activities directly with other potential benefactors and donors.
Please donate to the MRUFD
Should you wish to provide financial support to the MRUFD in the form of a donation or bequest (tax deductible), this can be done via The University of Melbourne (download donation form) or the Royal Children's Hospital. For the latter, please use the secure online facility (select 'Enter your credit card donation here', then on the Donation page select 'Facial Disorders, MRUFD'). Alternatively, download a donation form, or contact the Directors.
Objectives and Philosophy
Objectives of the MRUFD
The founding objectives of the MRUFD were to:
- Develop and promote world-class research in Melbourne for facial (i.e. oral, dental and craniofacial) disorders;
- Integrate facial research efforts within The University of Melbourne, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute and the Royal Children's Hospital;
- Provide on-going staff, facilities and funding to foster research into facial disorders including basic scientific and clinically applied research, and retrospective and prospective clinical outcome studies;
- Establish the Chair of Oral and Facial Sciences to continue independent studies and to collaborate with others on related work;
- Foster education within The University of Melbourne, through participation of the Unit's researchers in the activities of the University, and by making the resources of the Unit available to faculty and students of the University;
- Contribute to the life of Newman College at The University of Melbourne.
Translational Research Philosophy underpinning the MRUFD
By developing strong links between clinical activities and basic research, the bench to bedside' concept adopted by MRUFD aligns relevant investigations across multiple disciplines and interest areas. Such strategic alignments are expected to provide translational research' outcomes of benefit to the oral, dental and craniofacial fields and beyond.
Affiliations of the MRUFD
