PhD Scholarship Opportunity: The health and environmental impact of replacing meat-based foods with plant-based alternatives

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.

We have an exciting opportunity for a PhD candidate to undertake research investigating the human and planetary health impacts of plant-based meat products. The research will include in-depth investigation of the human metabolic effects as well as the impacts on a range of environmental indicators. The goal of the PhD will be to estimate the comparative risks and benefits of plant-based versus animal-based meat for human health and environmental sustainability. The research will focus on specific examples but also seek to draw conclusions applicable to the wider sector. There will be a strong focus on deliverables with direct applicability to industry practice and government policy, with the aim to develop systems that could inform policy on both health and environment

The research will be focused on quantitative evidence synthesis and modelling. High end statistical skills are not a pre-requisite, but the candidate will need to be interested in expanding this aspect of their skillset with the support of the team.  By the end of their studies the candidate should expect to be able to do meta-analyses and implement comparative risk assessment models.  Candidates possessing basic knowledge of issues related to human and planetary health, and a strong desire to learn more will be advantageous.

Supervisor(s)

• Professor Bruce Neal, Executive Director, The George Institute for Global Health
• Jason Wu, Program Head, The George Institute for Global Health
• Professor Gary Frost, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London

Eligibility

We are seeking candidates with a background in nutritional epidemiology, epidemiology modelling and public health or related discipline. We encourage applicants to apply from both an academic and policy background.

Candidates must hold a relevant first or second-class Honors degree or Masters Degree and/or be able to demonstrate equivalent research experience.

Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens or Australian permanent residents are eligible to apply.

Award Amount

The PhD Scholarship funded by Quorn, is at $40,000 per annum (tax exempt) for three years subject to satisfactory progress.

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.

Closing Date

Wednesday 17 November 2021, 00:00