Background
Dr Zay Yar Swe has a background in public health with more than 10 years of experience in the reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health (RMNCAH) field. He is currently a PhD student at the University of Melbourne. His research interests focus on adolescent health, including physical, mental and social wellbeing. Throughout his career, he has been actively involved in a range of research projects, collaborating with experts and organisations to advance knowledge in this important area. Through his work, he aims to contribute to improving health outcomes for adolescents.
Qualifications
- 2019: Diploma in Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights, Lund University, Sweden
- 2018: Post Grad Diploma in Research Studies, Yangon University of Economics, Myanmar
- 2017: Post Grad Diploma in Social Work, University of Yangon, Myanmar
- 2013: Master of Public Health, Mahidol University, Thailand
- 2012: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (Ygn), University of Dental Medicine, Myanmar
Appointments
- 2020 – ongoing: Global Academy of Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights, Lund University, Sweden
- 2019 – ongoing: Swedish Alumni Network Myanmar
- 2018 – ongoing : Myanmar Statistical Association
Positions
- 2021 – ongoing : Program Manager (Adolescent Health)
- 2016 – 2020 : Project Manager (RMNCAH)
- 2015 – 2016 : Technical Specialist (RMNCAH)
- 2014 – 2015 : Technical Officer (WASH & School Health)
Awards
- 2026: Melbourne Research Scholarship, The University of Melbourne
- 2025: Young Professional Award, International Association for Adolescent Health
- 2025: Public Health Travel Fellowship
- 2025: Staff Service Award
- 2024: Crockett Murphy Travel Fellowship
- 2024: Shark Tank Award
- 2022: Ideas Jam Grant award
- 2018: The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) Scholarship
Burnet publications
Adolescent girls' experiences of menstruation and schooling in monastic schools in Magway Region, Myanmar: A mixed-methods exploration
Frontiers in Reproductive Health
Zay Yar Swe et al
Monitoring Menstrual Health Knowledge: Awareness of Menstruation at Menarche as an Indicator
Frontiers in Global Women s Health
Julie Hennegan et al
Mental health of adolescents in Myanmar: A systematic review of prevalence, determinants and interventions
Asian Journal of Psychiatry
Dominic Carroll et al
Current projects
Innovative futures for adolescent pregnancy prevention
In Papua New Guinea and Myanmar, we're changing responses to unintended pregnancy among girls and young women by exploring contraceptive self-care strategies.
Healthy Minds Healthy Futures: improving mental health and wellbeing of young people in Myanmar
We are testing new ways to support young people’s mental health in Myanmar. Together, we’re designing and evaluating a model of community services and supports.
