PhD Opportunity: Reducing unwarranted variation in pediatric trauma care
Job No:
GEORGE939
Location:
Randwick, Australia
Our mission is to improve the health of millions of people worldwide.
We have an exciting opportunity for a full-time PhD candidate to undertake research on evidence-based trauma care for children and youth in New South Wales (NSW).
The research program will involve three phases of research:
1) co-develop, using Participatory Action Research, an evidence-based, sustainable intervention to address known variations in splenic injury care and their behavioural drivers;
2) test and refine this intervention, using implementation science research methods, within pediatric trauma care sites in NSW and produce an implementation strategy for its use across the trauma system;
3) develop a knowledge translation plan to facilitate application of the same to address other disparities in pediatric and youth trauma care.
The research will involve a range of mixed methods, including qualitative and quantitative elements, to generate evidence to enable the sustained change in practice required to reduce variation of care of children and youth with splenic injury across the health system.
Supervisors
Primary:
Dr Anna Palagyi, Program Lead – Ageing & Health Systems, The George Institute for Global Health;
A/Prof Susan Adams, Pediatric Surgeon, Sydney Children’s Hospital; Conjoint Associate Professor, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney; Honorary Research Fellow, The George Institute for Global Health
Secondary:
Professor Julie Brown, Head – Injury Program, The George Institute for Global Health
Who are we looking for?
Candidates must have a strong interest in pediatric trauma care, public health and implementation science applied to health systems. They will be enthusiastic, well-organised, and have excellent oral and written communication skills, as evidenced by previous publications in peer-reviewed journals. An ability to work autonomously and to be self-directed in learning, as well as to contribute to team activities and discussions, is necessary for the successful completion of this PhD. Professional experience in pediatric and/or trauma care delivery, and/or other related health discipline would be an advantage. Prior qualitative or mixed methods research and publications experience will be well regarded.
Eligibility
Candidates must hold a relevant first or second-class Honours degree or Masters degree with a substantial research component and/or be able to demonstrate equivalent research experience.
Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens or Australian permanent residents are eligible to apply.
Opportunity
This is a currently a non-funded PhD opportunity, however the successful candidate will be supported to apply for an Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney. A Top-Up Scholarship of AUD10,000 per annum will be made available to the successful candidate, contingent on successful award of the UNSW RTP scholarship.
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 cover letter:
- Evidence of meeting the eligibility criteria – please see Admission Requirements section of Medicine (The George Institute for Global Health) UNSW handbook
- Relevant professional experience
- Evidence of scientific writing skills
- Evidence of prior mixed methods research experience
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Other applicable indicators of excellence
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 29th September, 2025
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About the George
The George Institute for Global Health (The George) is 700+ employees around the world and projects in over 40 countries all focused on improving the health of millions of people worldwide.
As a medical research institute affiliated with leading universities, 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
We pride ourselves with our 6 core values: excellence, integrity, can-do approach, creativity, impact, and humanitarian commitment.
Please visit our website to read more about how we are addressing the world's biggest health problems
Please apply now!
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.
We value workplace diversity and encourage applications from people living with disability; women; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; people who identify as LGBTIQ+; mature-aged people and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Why The George?
We are committed to attracting, developing, rewarding and retaining the best people in their fields to conduct and support our innovative and highest quality research programs.
Take advantage of our rewards you may enjoy as part of The George team.
- Learning and career development opportunities
- YourFlex arrangements e.g. start/finish times, purchase leave, location
- A global, diverse, inclusive team committed to making impact
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