Monash University Graduate Research Stipend

This PhD stipend scholarship at Monash University’s School of Primary and Allied Health Care offers an exciting opportunity to advance the care and safety of hospitalised older adults through the use of advanced localisation and motion-based sensor technologies. The project is based at the Peninsula campus and forms part of the NHMRC-funded ‘Smart Ward PREDICT’ initiative, leveraging data from the National Centre for Healthy Ageing Smart Ward and Healthy Ageing Data Platform. The successful candidate will join the Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre and be supported by a multidisciplinary team with expertise in ageing, healthcare, biostatistics, and digital health.

Supervised by Associate Professor Christina Ekegren, the PhD candidate will investigate the real-world acceptability, validity, and clinical relevance of emerging sensor technologies such as radar, RFID, and Bluetooth in hospital, aged care, and home settings. The project aims to build an evidence base to guide clinical policy and practice, addressing key research questions including the psychometric properties and impact of these technologies, algorithm development and technical validation for movement and falls detection, and the use of machine learning to predict adverse outcomes like delirium and behaviours of concern. Perspectives of patients and staff on the acceptability and clinical utility of these technologies will also be explored.

The scholarship provides a generous annual stipend of $37,145 (2026 rate) for 3.5 years, indexed annually, with additional support for project resources and conference presentations through the School of Primary and Allied Health Care HDR Support Fund (up to $4,000) and the Monash Graduate Research Travel Grant. The candidate will participate in collaborative activities with the project team, enhancing their skills and capabilities in a dynamic research environment.

Applicants must meet Monash University’s PhD entry requirements, including citizenship or permanent residency in Australia or New Zealand, and hold a four-year bachelor’s degree with a research thesis (First Class Honours Division A) or a master’s degree with a research thesis (minimum 25% of one year full-time study, First Class Honours Division A), or equivalent qualifications and relevant professional or research experience. Preferred candidates will have a background in sensor technology, psychometrics, and a relevant clinical discipline such as nursing, medicine, or allied health, and be available to commence full-time in Q4 2026.

The application process involves two stages: first, submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to Dr Michelle Shannon with a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and referee contact details. Successful EOI candidates will be invited to submit a full PhD application. The deadline for applications is Sunday, 28 June 2026, 11:55pm AEST. For further information, refer to the supervisor’s academic profile and the Monash University job application portal.

This position is ideal for candidates passionate about digital health, sensor technology, and improving outcomes for older adults in hospital settings. The project offers a unique blend of technical, clinical, and collaborative research, supported by a leading Australian university and a diverse, multidisciplinary team.