Rate Professor Julie Leask

Professional Summary: Professor Julie Leask

Professor Julie Leask is a globally recognized expert in public health, social science, and immunization research at the University of Sydney, Australia. With a focus on vaccine hesitancy, health communication, and behavioral science, she has made significant contributions to understanding and addressing barriers to vaccination uptake. Her interdisciplinary work bridges academia, policy, and public health practice, positioning her as a leading voice in immunization advocacy and evidence-based communication strategies.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Leask holds advanced qualifications in public health and social sciences, reflecting her commitment to rigorous, evidence-based research. Her academic journey includes:

• PhD in Public Health, University of Sydney
• Master of Public Health (MPH), University of Sydney
• Bachelor of Nursing, University of Technology Sydney

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Leask specializes in the social and behavioral aspects of immunization, with particular emphasis on:

• Vaccine hesitancy and refusal
• Health communication and risk perception
• Public health policy and intervention design
• Social determinants of health and equity in vaccination access

Her research often explores how trust, cultural factors, and misinformation influence public health outcomes, providing actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners.

Career History and Appointments

Professor Leask has held numerous prestigious positions, contributing to both academic and public health spheres:

• Professor, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sydney
• Visiting Professorial Fellow, National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), Australia
• Advisor on vaccine hesitancy and communication to international health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO)

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Her impactful work has been recognized through various accolades, including:

• Member of the WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on Immunization (2018–present)
• Recipient of the Public Health Association of Australia’s President’s Award for contributions to immunization research
• Recognition as a leading researcher in vaccine hesitancy by global health bodies

Key Publications

Professor Leask has authored numerous influential papers and reports that have shaped the field of vaccine hesitancy and public health communication. Selected works include:

• Leask, J., et al. (2014). "Communicating with parents about vaccination: A framework for health professionals." BMC Pediatrics.
• Leask, J., et al. (2012). "Risk factors for childhood immunization incompletion in rural and remote areas." Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health.
• Dube, E., Leask, J., et al. (2020). "Vaccine hesitancy, vaccine refusal and the anti-vaccine movement: Influence, impact and implications." Expert Review of Vaccines.
• Leask, J. (2021). Contributions to WHO guidelines on managing vaccine hesitancy and building trust in immunization programs.

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Leask’s research has had a profound impact on global public health strategies, particularly in addressing vaccine hesitancy—a critical barrier to achieving immunization targets. Her work has informed international guidelines, including those by the WHO, and has provided frameworks for healthcare providers to engage with hesitant communities. She is frequently cited in academic literature and policy documents, and her contributions have helped shift the discourse toward empathetic, evidence-based communication in public health.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Leask is actively involved in disseminating knowledge and shaping policy through public engagement and leadership roles:

• Regular speaker at international conferences on immunization and public health, including WHO and UNICEF events
• Chair and member of advisory committees on vaccine communication and hesitancy for national and international bodies
• Contributor to editorial boards and peer-reviewed journals in public health and social science
• Media commentator on vaccination issues, providing expert insights to outlets such as The Guardian, BBC, and Australian media