PhD Scholarship Opportunity - Assessing the likely effects of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on public health

The George Institute is 700+ people around the world, all focused on improving the health of millions of people worldwide. As a medical research institute affiliated with leading universities and with projects in approximately 50 countries, we are challenging the status quo in healthcare to:

• Find better treatments for the world's biggest health problems
• Transform primary health care to support better health for more people
• Harness the power of communities, governments and markets to improve health

Our innovative commercial enterprises help maximise our impact. Please visit our website to read more about how we are addressing the world's biggest health problems.

A 3-year PhD stipend is now available to work on a project about the likely effects of autonomous vehicles on public health, especially in relation to diet and physical activity. The project is being funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

The successful PhD candidate will join the Food Policy team at The George Institute for Global Health in Sydney. The scope of the PhD will be on assessing the potential effects of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on a range of health-related behaviours. The life-saving potential of AVs through crash prevention is enormous, but they will also affect many other aspects of human health and well-being, including individuals’ types and levels of physical activity and their access to food and beverages.

The research will involve quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis, with a wide range of stakeholders. In addition, the student will have the opportunity to participate in other research initiatives being undertaken at The George Institute for Global Health. The student will gain valuable training and interact with a diverse research team.

Supervisor(s)

• Professor Simone Pettigrew
• Dr Jason Thompson – University of Melbourne
• Dr Leon Booth – The George Institute

Eligibility

Applicants should:

1. Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
2. Hold an undergraduate or Masters degree in a related discipline (e.g. public health, health policy, behavioural psychology, transport). Minimum qualification required is Honours second class, division one (or equivalent).

Award Amount

The scholarship stipend is $28,784 per annum, for up to 3 years. Students will be supported to apply for competitive scholarship funding.

Application Guide

Applications must include a cover letter, current CV, copy of academic transcripts, proof of citizenship or permanent residency, and the names and contact details of at least two referees.

Candidates are recommended to highlight in their application:

• Prior research experience
• Evidence of scientific writing skills
• Knowledge of data analysis methods
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Other applicable indicators of excellence

Our big and bold mission to improve the health of millions of people worldwide needs a diverse and innovative team to deliver it. So we foster a dynamic, inclusive and flexible workplace where each individual can bring their best selves to work.

Everyone is encouraged to apply, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with a disability, LGBTIQ people and mature-aged adults.