This opportunity is jointly supported by the University of the Sunshine Coast and the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service. As part of a broad program of research focused on the prevention, rehabilitation and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, this PhD research will address real-world clinical challenges. The candidate will work as part of the team to develop and test new intervention strategies (including centre-based and telehealth) that promote accessibility and enhance the effectiveness of cardiovascular rehabilitation.

The candidate will join the VasoActive cardiovascular research group, which includes researchers, clinicians and research-trainees from a broad range of disciplines including exercise physiology, biomedical science, cardiology, vascular surgery, nursing, psychology, physiotherapy, nutrition and dietetics and other areas of health. The candidate will be supervised by Professor Chris Askew and other members of the group.

The candidate will be based at the Sunshine Coast Health Institute (SCHI) and will carry out projects in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of clinical staff at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital. This program provides the opportunity to develop a broad range of research skills including systematic literature reviews, clinical trial methodology, project management, grant writing, as well as publishing and conference presentations. The research will also utilise and provide opportunities to develop technical and clinical skills in functional assessments and fitness testing, cardiovascular assessments, cognitive performance tests, exercise rehabilitation and programming, and data analysis and interpretation.

This opportunity will suit a person who has a strong work ethic, is self-motivated, and has a desire to learn and develop as a researcher. The candidate will need to work well with others as part of a team and be able to communicate effectively and relate well with research participants (patients). Applicants with research and/or professional experience in exercise physiology, physiotherapy, nursing, psychology, dietetics, biomedical science, medicine and other relevant areas of health are encouraged to apply. Experience in clinical/hospital rehabilitation would be an advantage but is not essential.

Eligibility

• Be accepted into a Doctor of Philosophy or Master of Science program at the University of the Sunshine Coast

Selection criteria

• Criterion 1: Academic Achievement
• Criterion 2: Research Capability
• Additional Criterion: Research and/or professional experience in a related area of health or rehabilitation

Eligible programs

Doctor of Philosophy & Master of Science

Number available

1

Value

1a - PhD Tuition offset for up to 3 years  (minimum total value $66 000 aud) 

1b - Master of Science tuition offset 1.5 Years  

2-  Living stipend of $33 446.56 (2023 UniSC research rate) per annum tax-free, paid in fortnightly instalments. The rate is indexed annually commensurate with the RTP base stipend rate. 3 years coverage PhD, 1.5 years Master of Science with the possibility of a 6-month extension in approved circumstances.

3 -  $2000 Allowance (Standard with a RTPS for relocation, Publication and thesis costs as per scholarship conditions

4- Single OSHC for period of program (international applicants only) 

Application

Application open to domestic and international applicants *

This will be a two-stage application process:

Stage 1 - Expression of Interest: 

Contact Person: Professor Chris Askew - CAskew@USC.EDU.AU 

• Download and complete the UniSC Research Scholarship (USCRS) application form.
• Reference scholarship code = UniSC_RS_2308_ASKEW
• Email your Expression of Interest (EOI) to the contact person and attach:
  • USCRS application form
  • Cover letter
  • Current CV
• The scholarship panel will review the EOI. If shortlisted, you will be invited for interview.
• The preferred applicant will be invited to formally apply for HDR program and Scholarship.

Stage 2 - Formal application (only if you have been invited to apply)

• Read the important information on How to Apply for a HDR Program at UniSC.
• Submit your USCRS application form as a supporting document when submitting your HDR Program application.

* scholarship offer is subject to applicant meeting the eligibility requirements for entry into a higher degree by research program at UniSC.