Partnership with University of Curtin, Western Australia
University of Aberdeen Development Trust PhD Studentship
- Thriving not surviving: improving follow-up care for breast cancer survivors
Supervisors: Professor Mandy Ryan, Dr Nicolas Krucien (HERU); Dr Richard Norman and Dr Suzanne Robinson (University of Curtin, Western Australia)
After completing primary breast cancer treatment patients enter structured follow-up aiming to detect cancer recurrence. This typically consists of scheduled hospital appointments with secondary care specialists. As the number of people surviving breast cancer grows, the cost of follow-up increases. Furthermore, there is growing evidence that many cancer survivors have unmet practical, physical and psychological needs. Little is known about what breast cancer survivors want for their follow-up care. This PhD will take a mixed method approach to address this issue, using qualitative research methods and discrete choice modelling. Consideration will be given to follow-up support provided by both the hospital sector and 3rd sector, and to both physical and emotional wellbeing.
The studentship is part of a partnership between the Universities of Aberdeen and Curtin (Western Australia). The host institution will be Aberdeen, with the successful candidate having opportunities to visit and conduct applied work at Curtin. The precise focus for the doctoral project, and time spent between Aberdeen and Curtin, is open for discussion between the successful student and supervisors.
Applications are invited from individuals with a background in economics or a related quantitative subject. Applicants should have (or expect to achieve) a First Class undergraduate degree, and a higher degree at Masters Level. Consideration will be given to applicants with an upper second class undergraduate degree if they achieve a Distinction at Masters level or have substantial evidence of relevant experience and equivalent intellectual achievement in a work related context.
This four year PhD studentship is funded by the University of Aberdeen Development Trust and is being offered to high-achieving students from anywhere in the world, irrespective of residence, looking to begin a PhD programme in autumn 2016. The studentship will cover stipend and full tuition fees.
Details of how to apply are available from the PhD advert on the College of Life Sciences and Medicine (CLSM) website.
The closing date for applications is Friday 1st July 2016 and interviews will be held on Friday 22nd July 2016.