Dr Islam taught and coordinated a large subject named Social Determinants of Health at La Trobe University. Currently, he teaches Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Systematic Review and Evaluation of Healthcare Research. He conducts research around healthcare and public health programs for vulnerable population groups, substance use and addictive medicines. Dr Islam worked at the health policy interface for about five years. He is a member of the editorial board of the peer-reviewed journal, Drug and Alcohol Review.