PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Identify optimal blood pressure levels after acute ischaemic stroke
Job No:
GEORGE724
Location:
Sydney CBD
Funding Body
University of New South Wales and The George Institute for Global Health
Title
Identify optimal blood pressure levels after acute ischaemic stroke
Supervisor(s)
Primary:
Professor Craig Anderson, Professor of Neurology and Epidemiology, The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales
Dr Xia Wang, Senior Research Fellow; The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales
Secondary:
Professor Lili Song, Distinguished Research Professor, Fudan University, Shanghai
Dr Leibo Liu, Senior Data Scientist, Centre for Big Data Research in Health, University of New South Wales
Research Areas
Stroke, Individual Patient Data Meta-analysis, Artificial Intelligence
Award Type
Doctor of Philosophy
Description
A scholarship is available for a suitably qualified candidate to undertake a 3-year PhD degree, based at The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales.
Despite several large clinical trials assessing blood pressure lowering in acute stroke, equipoise remains particularly for ischaemic stroke. The “Blood pressure in Acute Stroke Collaboration (BASC)” commenced in the mid-1990s, focussing on systematic reviews and meta-analysis of blood pressure lowering in acute stroke. This project is planned to assess the safety and efficacy of blood pressure lowering in acute ischaemic stroke using individual patient data.
Results from randomised controlled trials or individual patient data meta-analysis are based upon what works best on average across broadly defined patient populations and not on the best treatment for an individual patient. So far, no therapeutic prediction score is available to provide personalised estimates of optimal blood pressure control levels that enable clinicians to tailor blood pressure-lowering treatment to patient-specific needs and characteristics. In this study, we will also use artificial intelligence to develop robust decision-making support tools to assist clinicians in recommending treatment at a personalised level in patients with acute ischaemic stroke.
The successful candidate will have strong interest in big data analytics, AI and machine learning techniques. A good command of biostatistics and analysis software (e.g., SAS, STATA, R, Python) 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.
Eligibility
Applicants should hold an appropriate undergraduate, or Masters, degree in a related disciplines (e.g., public health, biostatistics, computer science, health data science). Professional experience in statistical analysis, AI modelling, global health, or other related preventative health discipline would be an advantage. Applicants must be Australian citizens or Australian permanent residents.
Award Amount
The scholarship stipend is $38,000 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
Closing Date
Thursday 16th May, 2024
