Degree type
PhD, Masters by research
Closing date
1 June 2025
Campus
Hobart, Sydney
Citizenship requirement
Domestic
About the research project
This proposed research aims to investigate the impact of age-based pain management protocols in prehospital care, with a particular focus on the 65-year cut-off commonly used in Australian ambulance services. Age-related physiological changes, such as altered drug metabolism and increased sensitivity to medications, often lead to reduced initial dosages for older patients. While these measures aim to reduce adverse effects, they may also compromise pain relief.
The study will explore whether age-based dosing protocols for opiates and ketamine achieve an optimal balance between effective pain control and safety. While the 65-year age cut-off is a widely recognized threshold, the research will also consider the implications of similar age-based practices. Using regression discontinuity design, the project will leverage the natural experiment created by this age cut-off in clinical guidelines. Analysis will focus on key outcomes, including changes in pain scores, vital signs, and adverse events, to assess the effectiveness and safety of these protocols.
This research has the potential to fill critical knowledge gaps in prehospital pain management. By focusing on the practical implementation of age-based protocols, particularly the 65-year threshold, it aims to provide robust evidence for refining clinical guidelines. Findings could inform paramedic education, enhance decision-making, and ensure equitable and effective pain relief for patients of all ages.
The project aligns with UTAS COHM's mission to advance health outcomes through impactful research and evidence-based practices. Researchers and stakeholders are encouraged to support this initiative to optimize prehospital pain management strategies. This work not only addresses a key area of prehospital care but also contributes to broader efforts to improve health equity and outcomes for ageing populations.
Primary Supervisor
Funding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $33,511 per annum (2025 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus.
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- Research Interest and Motivation: A genuine interest in emergency medicine, pain management, or prehospital care.
Willingness to engage with age-based dosing protocols and learn advanced research methods. - Basic Research Skills: Some experience with quantitative research or a willingness to develop these skills. Openness to learning and applying statistical tools (e.g., SPSS, R, or Stata).
- Collaborative Abilities: Strong interpersonal skills for working with paramedics, healthcare providers, and supervisors. An ability to communicate ideas effectively and seek guidance when needed.
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Familiarity with healthcare settings or emergency medicine.
- An eagerness to publish research findings or present at conferences, with support and mentorship.
- Interest in developing knowledge of regulatory and ethical considerations in prehospital research.
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Dr Francsois Fouche to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 June 2025.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section at Research degrees.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
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