The Centre aims to understand the effects of severe burns on biological functions such as the immune system, endocrine function and circulation. Translational clinical research will then be undertaken to test the feasibility for larger trials. The findings will contribute to an increased understanding of the most serious clinical outcomes of burn injuries such as multiple organ failure. This patient-centred programme intends to generate results to be translated into patient care during the lifetime of the project.

This Centre will combine clinical and academic research on the prevention of burns and improvement of the outlook of children with burn injuries. The research will be based around three key themes: clinical management, psychological healing and rehabilitation and prevention. Scientists at Bath will undertake translational research on fluid resuscitation in burned children and burn wound management. The psychological healing and rehabilitation theme will be lead from the Centre for Appearance Research. An epidemiological database will be established on the South West UK burn network to improve the understanding of childhood burns and to test preventative interventions to reduce thermal injuries in children.