Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Preventative and Public Health Research Initiative

The Centre for Health Economics (CHE) at Monash University, Melbourne, Australia, invites applications for up to three PhD scholarships in Applied Economics, focusing on the Patient-Centred Evaluation of medical devices (PACE) program. This opportunity is funded by the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Preventative and Public Health Research Initiative, supporting the PACE project for the next five years. The PACE program aims to transform health technology assessment by incorporating patient and community perspectives, improving access to treatment for chronic and life-threatening conditions.

Successful candidates will join a vibrant research community within the CHE, the largest health economics PhD program in Australia and a leader in the Asia-Pacific region. The project is based at the Caulfield campus and offers a 4.5-year fixed-term appointment, including a generous scholarship covering tuition fees and a tax-free stipend of AU$37,000 per annum (up to $47,000 for outstanding students). Additional financial support is available through research and teaching assistance work. Students will receive their own laptop and dedicated workspace, and enjoy opportunities for domestic and international conference travel and research visits.

The PACE project comprises two main work packages: WP-1 focuses on compiling and analysing a database of past funding decisions for medical technologies, using survey-based experiments and advanced quantitative methods. WP-2 builds an evidence base of real patient experiences and preferences, employing large language models and experimental design principles to guide health policy decisions. Candidates will undertake tailored training in theory and methods relevant to these work packages, including advanced coursework in quantitative methods and hands-on research experience.

PhD supervision will be provided by Associate Professor Duncan Mortimer and Associate Professor Jing Jing Li, with opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers from the University of Sydney, Deakin University, and University of Technology Sydney. The Integrated PhD Program begins with one year of advanced coursework and research training, culminating in a minor thesis packaged into a Master of Commerce (MCom) degree. Upon meeting requirements, students progress to the PhD research stage, typically completed in three and a half years.

Applicants must have completed an Honours degree, a four-year Bachelor’s degree, or a Master’s degree with excellent results and a research component in a quantitative discipline such as economics, psychology, or econometrics. A strong interest or background in health policy, health economics, or public health is highly valued. English language requirements apply as per Monash Business School guidelines. Employment prospects for graduates are excellent, with alumni securing positions at top universities and consulting firms worldwide.

Applications for February 2027 commencement open 1 July 2026 and close 31 August 2026. Interested candidates should review entry requirements and eligibility information on the Monash Business School website and follow the Integrated PhD program application process. For project-specific questions, contact Associate Professor Duncan Mortimer or Associate Professor Jing Jing Li. The Centre for Health Economics supports a diverse workforce and encourages applications from all backgrounds.