Breast Impacts and Breast Protective Equipment in Contact, Combat and Pseudo-contact Sports

The Project

A fully funded PhD Scholarship is available for an outstanding candidate to work on a project co-funded by the University of Canberra and the Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, University of Canberra. Embedded within the Applied Biomechanics research theme, the project will explore breast impacts and breast specific protective equipment for female contact, combat and pseudo-contact athletes. The project is supported by the Australian Sports Commission and aligned with the University of Canberra’s Women in Sport strategy. A key focus of the project will involve working with female contact, combat, and pseudo-contact sports athletes. The project will involve biomechanical data collection and analysis, including both lab and field-based testing. This is an exciting experience for a PhD candidate based at the University of Canberra to collaborate closely with national and international researchers and industry as part of a collaborative research program.

The Scholarship

This PhD is co-funded by the University of Canberra and the Research Institute for Sport and Exercise. The annual stipend is AU$35,000 per annum (tax free) for a period of 3.5 years of full-time study, including full tuition fee waiver. Anticipated enrolment is early August 2024 (Semester 2 intake).

The Candidate

The successful candidate will be based at The University of Canberra (Canberra, Australia) under the supervision of Dr Celeste Coltman and Dr Crystal Kean. External co-supervisors include Dr Dan Cottam (Australian Institute of Sport), Dr Elisabeth Williams (Swansea University) and Dr Brooke Brisbine. There will be opportunities to develop industry skills at the Australian Institute of Sport and to collaborate with international researchers.

This project would suit someone with a strong background and technical skills in biomechanics, mechanical or biomedical engineering or exercise science (kinesiology) and an interest in women in sport. Potential candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with Honours/ Masters in any of the fields described above or a related field. This opportunity is open to Australian or New Zealand citizens, Australian permanent residents, and international students eligible to study in Australia on an international student visa. This is a competitive process with shortlisted applicants going to a second stage videoconference interview.

EOI Process – DUE June 21, 2024

Interested applicants are asked to submit an expression of interest (EOI) to Associate Professor Celeste Coltman, containing:

• A brief (2-page maximum) covering letter, describing your background, interests and why you would be a good candidate for the project;
• A CV of relevant experience and any peer-reviewed publications;
• Academic transcripts; and
• Two relevant references.

If you are interested in applying, please contact Celeste.Coltman@canberra.edu.au