Social Science of Health

What we do

ISSR is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of all and addressing health inequalities. We study the context of health and wellbeing across the life course, focusing on how the conditions in which people are born and live shape their health, and how the people, environment, settings and institutions they interact with affect their wellbeing. Our research focuses on enabling the strengths, protective factors and resources of individuals, communities and the health systems supporting them.

ISSR researchers apply cutting-edge design, methodological and statistical expertise to investigate how early life experiences, social supports and policy decisions influence health. We work with stakeholders to develop health improvement interventions and test and implement these at scale, engaging with communities to understand lived experience and co-develop solutions. Key research areas are: maternal, perinatal and child health, obesity, sleep, mental health, alcohol and other drugs, and syndemics - understanding the complex interplay of multiple social and health problems.

Objectives

  • Understanding the social determinants of health

  • Addressing health inequalities

  • Co-developing health and wellbeing solutions