Centre for Human Psychopharmacology
We conduct world-leading research to explore the cognitive and mood effects of natural substances, pharmaceuticals, recreational drugs and dietary interventions across the lifespan, as well as running a global research program aimed at measuring and enhancing emotional intelligence in schools.
The Centre for Human Psychopharmacology conducts world-leading clinical trials exploring the cognitive and mood effects of nutrients, nutrition, supplements, and recreational and prescription drugs. We aim to understand the fundamental aspects of neurocognitive change and to use methods of applied human psychopharmacology to enhance human cognition, behaviour and emotion. We also educate the public on the efficacy and safety of natural medicine and recreational drugs on the brain and work closely with industry to allow rapid translation of research findings into evidence-based benefits for brain health.
Our key research areas:
- cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection
- risk factors for cognitive ageing
- nutrition and the brain
- drugs and driving
- alcohol and hangovers
- medicinal cannabis
- addiction medicine
- emotional intelligence
- pharmacoimaging.
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Our clinical trials
We run trials for some of the world’s leading nutraceutical and pharmaceutical companies.
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Study with us
Our team members teach into several units with a neuroscience/psychophysiology flavour. We offer supervision to research students at postgraduate (Honours, Master and PhD) levels in the fields of psychology, psychophysiology and health sciences.
If you’d like to be considered for supervision, check whether your interests align with our research areas and the research interests of possible supervisors:
You can either contact the supervisor directly or contact chp@swinburne.edu.au with an expression of interest that includes your CV, the area of research you are interested in and who your preferred supervisor would be.
If you’re not a current Swinburne student but would also like to be considered for research opportunities, you can still contact us following the instructions above.
Find out more about Swinburne research degrees or apply for one now!
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Our publications
Read articles, papers, book chapters, reports and more, written by our researchers.
Centre news
- Health
- Science
Swinburne to advance cardiac care and asbestos detection with industry-engaged grants
Swinburne has secured two grants from Australia's Economic Accelerator Ignite program to support innovative commercialisation projects.
- Health
- Science
Medical cannabis mysteries to be unlocked by new five-year NHMRC project
A new Swinburne-led medical cannabis investigation aims to help close the knowledge gap surrounding the drug and its potential in society.
- Health
- Science
- University
- Technology
Swinburne’s 2025 MedTechVic showcase celebrates innovation in collaboration
Swinburne University of Technology’s MedTechVic hub brought together researchers, industry partners and end users of medical and assistive devices at their recent 2025 annual showcase.
- Technology
- Health
Epilepsy and high blood pressure in the sights of Swinburne’s $2.7 million in NHMRC funding
Swinburne has successfully secured $2.7 million in the latest round of National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Project Grants to address two major health concerns for millions of Australians: high blood pressure and epilepsy.
- Health
Swinburne medical cannabis driving trial starts
Swinburne is leading a trial as part of the Victorian Government’s $4.9 million investment in developing an informed position on medicinal cannabis and drug driving.
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- Health
- Science
Swinburne to advance cardiac care and asbestos detection with industry-engaged grants
Swinburne has secured two grants from Australia's Economic Accelerator Ignite program to support innovative commercialisation projects.
Wednesday 12 March 2025 -
- Health
- Science
Medical cannabis mysteries to be unlocked by new five-year NHMRC project
A new Swinburne-led medical cannabis investigation aims to help close the knowledge gap surrounding the drug and its potential in society.
Wednesday 26 February 2025 -
- Health
- Science
- University
- Technology
Swinburne’s 2025 MedTechVic showcase celebrates innovation in collaboration
Swinburne University of Technology’s MedTechVic hub brought together researchers, industry partners and end users of medical and assistive devices at their recent 2025 annual showcase.
Thursday 20 February 2025 -
- Technology
- Health
Epilepsy and high blood pressure in the sights of Swinburne’s $2.7 million in NHMRC funding
Swinburne has successfully secured $2.7 million in the latest round of National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Project Grants to address two major health concerns for millions of Australians: high blood pressure and epilepsy.
Wednesday 18 December 2024 -
- Health
Swinburne medical cannabis driving trial starts
Swinburne is leading a trial as part of the Victorian Government’s $4.9 million investment in developing an informed position on medicinal cannabis and drug driving.
Monday 04 November 2024
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How you can reach us
Postal address
Mail H24
PO Box 218
Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122
Australia
Location
Advanced Technologies Centre (ATC)
Level 3, 427-451 Burwood Rd,
Hawthorn, Victoria 3122 Australia
Contact the Centre for Human Psychopharmacology
There are many ways to engage with us. If your organisation is dealing with a complex problem, get in touch to discuss how we can work together to provide solutions. Call us on +61 3 9214 4444 or email chp@swinburne.edu.au.