2024 RTP round - Identifying phenotypes of lung disease following preterm birth and identifying treatable traits

Status: Closed

Applications open: 7/07/2023
Applications close: 25/08/2023

View printable version [.pdf]
About this scholarship
Description/Applicant information

Preterm birth is now a well-established risk factor in the development of life-long lung disease. Our group has previously identified that many survivors of preterm birth experience progressively increasing airway obstruction from childhood through to adolescence, with mounting evidence that many individuals within this population will develop early onset chronic obstructive pulmonary disease later in life. Unfortunately, we still have a limited understanding of what mechanisms are driving progression in underlying disease and how we can identify those at greatest risk of ongoing disease. This has stymied the development of clear guidelines for clinicians on how we can best follow up and treat survivors of preterm birth and alter the trajectory towards early lung function decline.

Our team is in a unique position where we believe we can help to answer many of these questions. We have recently begun a follow up study on a cohort of children born <32 weeks' gestation at King Edward Hospital who were previously part of the Preterm Infant Functional and Clinical Outcomes (PIFCO) study where detailed neonatal information, functional respiratory assessments, health questionnaires, and in subgroup monthly viral swabs were collected for the first year of life. To the best of our knowledge, this cohort is the most deeply phenotyped group of children born at less than 32 weeks' gestation. Now that these children are of primary school age, we are inviting them back for a follow-up study to conduct more comprehensive assessments of their respiratory health and lung function.

Utilising the in-depth early life information we possess about this cohort, our objective is to develop phenotype profiles of treatable traits that are linked with a decline in lung function during early life. This information will provide us with valuable insight into the ways we can potentially intervene and help these children lead healthier lives.
This project has broad potential for prospective PhD candidates, although with scope to consider those applying for Masters or Honours. We are willing to work with potential applicants to define a project best suited to their needs and interests. 

The overarching aim of this project is to improve the respiratory health of survivors of preterm birth through:
• Identification of treatable traits early life factors such as viral infections which predict impairments in lung function during early life
• Developing phenotype profiles of treatable traits which are associated with reduced lung function in school aged children
• Creating evidence based clinical guidelines advising on how to follow up survivors of preterm birth 

This study will be the first to directly explore the impact of early life viral infections on lung health outcomes in later life following preterm birth. This evidence is essential to develop the much-needed clinical guidelines to direct how children with a history of preterm birth should be managed to provide optimal lung health outcomes in later life and alter their lung function trajectories. 

This project may provide an Internship opportunity. Our team offers various internship opportunities depending on the students specific interests. Opportunities exist within our local, national or international networks. 

Student type

• Future Students

Faculty

• Faculty of Health Sciences

Course type

• Higher Degree by Research

Citizenship

• Australian Citizen
• Australian Permanent Resident
• New Zealand Citizen
• Permanent Humanitarian Visa
• International Student

Scholarship base

• Merit Based

Value

The annual scholarship package (stipend and tuition fees) is approx. $60,000 - $70,000 p.a.

Successful HDR applicants for admission will receive a 100% fee offset for up to 4 years, stipend scholarships at the 2023 RTP rate valued at $32,250 p.a. for up to a maximum of 3 years, with a possible 6 month completion scholarship. Applicants are determined via a competitive selection process and will be notified of the scholarship outcome in November 2023. 

The successful applicant would be eligible to apply for a number of Top-up stipends through the Wal-yan Respiratory Centre and Telethon Kids Institute.

For detailed information, visit: Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships | Curtin University, Perth, Australia.

Scholarship Details
Maximum number awarded

1

Eligible courses

All applicable HDR courses

Eligibility criteria

We are seeking a motivated individual with the ability to work with a team who foster a healthy and supportive workplace culture. The ideal PhD applicant for this study should possess a strong academic background in medical sciences, preferably with a focus on neonatal or pediatric care. Key skills include proficiency in research methodologies, data analysis, and strong written and oral communication abilities. Experience in conducting cohort studies and proficiency in using lung function testing equipment would be a distinct advantage. Critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for improving health outcomes for preterm infants are essential. Must comply with CAHS policies relating to working in healthcare. 

Application process

If this project excites you, and your research skills and experience are a good fit for this specific project, you should contact the Project Lead (listed below in the enquires section) via the Expression of Interest (EOI) form. ahead of the closing date. Please note you should apply as soon as possible, as once a suitable candidate has been identified this opportunity will no longer be available to receive an EOI.

Enrolment Requirements

Eligible to enrol in a Higher Degree by Research Course at Curtin University by March 2024.

Recipients must complete their milestone 1 within 6 month of enrolment and remain enrolled on a full-time basis for the duration of the scholarship.

Enquiries

To enquire about this project opportunity that includes a scholarship application, contact the Project lead Shannon Simpson via the EOI form above.

Scholarships Email Alert
Sign up now