The ANU is a foundation member of a research consortium investigating post-infection fatigue syndromes via a newly established Biobank and data repository, coordinated by Emerge Australia (Melbourne, Victoria). The current focus is primarily concerned with ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome), with reference to Long COVID (LC). 

While ME/CFS can be triggered by non-infectious causes, the project emphasis is post-viral long-term idiopathic fatigue (as well as SARS.CoV.2, other respiratory viruses, Herpes viruses (e.g., EBV), and Ross River virus have been implicated). Recent estimates suggest that 70 – 80% of ME/CFS cases are post-viral.

The mystery of post-viral fatigue syndromes has encouraged various research approaches, often via biomedical and/or clinical routes. More population-focused investigations are required.

Via the abovementioned AusME data repository, opportunities exist to explore the patterns in populations associated with ME, LC and similar diseases. Attached are guidelines to the biobank repository, which summarise data representing the scope of results collected from participants, spanning cellular and biochemical results, to questionnaires, clinical and family histories.

We will welcome project enquiries from Master's students studying epidemiology or population health, with skills in statistical methods.

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