Rate Professor Jane Hocking

Professional Summary: Professor Jane Hocking

Professor Jane Hocking is a distinguished epidemiologist and public health researcher at the University of Melbourne, Australia. With a career dedicated to advancing knowledge in sexual health and infectious disease epidemiology, she has made significant contributions to public health policy and practice both nationally and internationally.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Hocking holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) and a Master of Public Health (MPH), complemented by a PhD in Epidemiology. Her academic training has equipped her with a robust foundation in quantitative research methods and public health strategies.

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Her research primarily focuses on the epidemiology of sexually transmissible infections (STIs), particularly chlamydia, and the development of effective public health interventions. Professor Hocking's work also extends to health service delivery, preventive health strategies, and the social determinants of health, with an emphasis on improving outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Career History and Appointments

• Professor of Epidemiology and Public Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne (current)
• Head, Sexual Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Melbourne
• Previous roles include research positions focusing on infectious disease epidemiology and public health interventions at various academic and research institutions in Australia.

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

• National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Senior Research Fellowship – Recognizing her leadership in public health research.
• Multiple research grants from NHMRC and other bodies for projects on STI prevention and control.

Key Publications

Professor Hocking has authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications. Below is a selection of notable works:

• Hocking JS, et al. "Chlamydia screening in general practice: a missed opportunity for early intervention." Medical Journal of Australia, 2006.
• Hocking JS, et al. "The incidence of sexually transmissible infections among frequently screened sex workers in a decriminalised and regulated system in Melbourne." Sexually Transmitted Infections, 2005.
• Hocking JS, et al. "Effect of expedited treatment of sex partners on recurrent or persistent gonorrhea or chlamydial infection." New England Journal of Medicine, 2005.
• Walker J, Hocking JS, et al. "Chlamydia testing and retesting patterns in Australia." Lancet Infectious Diseases, 2012.

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Hocking's research has significantly influenced public health policies related to STI prevention and management in Australia. Her work on chlamydia screening and treatment has informed national guidelines, contributing to improved health outcomes. She is widely recognized for her leadership in large-scale epidemiological studies and randomized controlled trials, which have provided critical evidence for health interventions. Her contributions have also extended to global health discussions on infectious disease control.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

• Regular speaker at national and international conferences on public health and epidemiology, including the International Society for STD Research.
• Member of advisory committees for the Australian Government on sexual health and infectious disease policy.
• Editorial board member and peer reviewer for leading journals in epidemiology and public health, such as Sexually Transmitted Infections and Lancet Infectious Diseases.