PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Influence of sex and socioeconomic status on stroke diagnostics and treatment through Big Data analyses

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 scholarship is now available for a suitably qualified candidate, to undertake a 3.5 year PhD degree, based at The George Institute for Global Health and University of New South Wales. The scholarship stipend is $30,000 per year for 3.5 years and students will be supported to apply for competitive scholarship funding.

Even in advanced countries like Australia, where each citizen is granted equal access to healthcare, women and people with a less favourable socioeconomic status (SES), seem to be disadvantaged in cardiovascular disease management.  Internationally, studies have shown that women receive poorer management of stroke compared to men, but comprehensive Australian data are limited.  While studies identified SES disparities in stroke incidence and mortality in Australia, these were all conducted more than 10 years ago and now out-of-date in the context of modern reperfusion therapy and evidence-based risk factor management. Contemporary data are needed to address any sex/SES disparities across the patient journey with acute stroke, from the time of onset of symptoms, initial assessment and use of acute treatments, and discharge from hospital with various secondary prevention treatment packages according to recommended guidlines.

The successful candidate will have strong interest in Big Data analytics. A good command of biostatistics and analysis software (eg SAS, STATA, R) would also be an advantage. They will be enthusiastic, well-organised, and have excellent oral and written communication skills, as evidenced by publications, including in peer-reviewed journals. An ability to work autonomously and to be self-directed in learning, as well as contributing to team activities and discussions, will be necessary for the successful completion of this PhD. Experience in conducting scoping and systematic reviews is desirable.

Supervisor(s)

Primary:

• Professor Mark Woodward, Professor of Medical Statistics; The George Institute for Global Health
• Dr Xia Wang, Senior Research Fellow; The George Institute for Global Health

Secondary:

• Dr Cheryl Carcel, Senior Research Fellow; The George Institute for Global Health
• Professor Craig Anderson, Professor of Neurology and Epidemiology; The George Institute for Global Health

Eligibility

Applicants should:

1. Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
2. Hold an appropriate undergraduate, or Masters, degree in a related discipline (eg public health, biostatistics)

Professional experience in statistical analysis, global health, or other related preventative health discipline would be an advantage.

Award Amount

The scholarship stipend is $30,000 per annum per year for 3.5 years. Students will be supported to apply for competitive scholarship funding.

Application Guide

Applications should 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
• Evidence of statistical analysis skills
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Other applicable indicators of excellence

Updated closing date:

Tuesday 2nd March 2021.

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.