Project description

This PhD program provides a unique opportunity to contribute to an emerging field of research that challenges conventional, male-dominated perspectives on drink and drug driving.

While impaired driving research has traditionally focused on men, growing evidence suggests that women’s pathways into, and experiences with, drink and drug driving differ in significant ways. We seek a capable candidate who, with the guidance and support of their supervisors, will identify knowledge gaps and develop a research program that can inform targeted prevention and intervention strategies, and ultimately contribute to safer roads.

This program focuses on the experiences of people who identify as women, without disregarding the relevance of non-binary gender identities in this context.

Research environment

The MAIC/UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration (MAIC/UniSC RSRC) was established in 2018 as a strategic partnership between the Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC) and the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) to undertake high level, applied research that positively impacts upon the lives and safety of Queensland's road users and community. Comprised of a team of over 20 research academics, HDR scholars and casual research officers, we are a leading road safety research centre in Queensland producing world-class research outputs, with a focus on impaired driving.

Scholarship

This project is supported by the MAIC/UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration.

This scholarship includes:

• Stipend - $35,482 per annum paid in fortnightly instalments. Payment is for 3 years to align with thesis submission (possible extension in line with relevant policies and procedures)
• Time frame – Three years for the current opportunity
• Tuition fees - Offset scholarship for 3 years to cover cost of tuition fees, also aligned with thesis submission (possible extension in line with relevant policies and procedures) - approximate value of $87 000
• $2,000 relocation allowance per scholarship conditions

Supervisor

Principal supervisor

Dr Hanna Watling

MAIC/UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration

Ideal Candidate

• An outstanding graduate with a minimum class IIA Honours in psychology or a related discipline, or the equivalent demonstrated via research experience/publications in a related discipline (e.g., public health)
• Enthusiastic and strong work ethic
• Interest in impaired driving and road safety
• Ability to work effectively with others and independently
• Organised and strong attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills
• Experience or interest in a related field (e.g., health interventions, women’s issues) would be beneficial but is not essential

Eligibility Details

• Domestic student status - Australia or New Zealand citizen or Australian Permanent resident

How to apply

Apply online through the link: https://unisc-cp.enquire.cloud/round/RND-0000047/916